Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings the comforting flavors of fall into your home. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of apples and warm spices that fills your kitchen with sweet aromas. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet afternoon, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for bakers of all levels. Let’s dive into what makes this Apple Cake so special!
Gather Your Apple Cake Ingredients
You don’t need fancy ingredients for this delicious dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/3 cup honey (about 113g)
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (about 90g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Optional glaze: 2 tablespoons honey + 1 tablespoon water
Step-by-Step Apple Cake Recipe
Follow these straightforward instructions to create a delicious Apple Cake:
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the apples: Toss the diced apples with lemon juice in a bowl. This helps prevent the apples from browning.
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Whisk the eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs for about 2 minutes until they’re light and foamy.
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Add honey and vanilla: Pour the honey and vanilla into the bowl, whisking until all ingredients are combined.
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Combine dry ingredients: Stir in the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder until everything is well mixed.
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Rest the mixture: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This will help the oats soften, making the cake moist.
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Fold in the apples: Gently fold the prepared apples into the mixture. Don’t worry if it seems very apple-heavy; that’s exactly what you want!
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Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, making sure to arrange the top apples decoratively for a beautiful finish.
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Bake: Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Optional glaze: If you want an extra touch of sweetness, brush the warm cake with a glaze made from 2 tablespoons of honey mixed with 1 tablespoon of water.
The Best Way to Serve It
To make the most of your Apple Cake, consider these serving suggestions:
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Slice it up: Cut the cake into wedges and serve on individual plates. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully.
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Pair with drinks: Enjoy with a cup of warm chai tea or coffee for a comforting treat any time of day.
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Garnish: For an extra touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or add a few walnut pieces for added texture and flavor.
Helpful Tricks for Apple Cake
Here are a few tips to make your Apple Cake even better:
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Use a mix of apples: For a depth of flavor, try combining different apple varieties, like sweet Fuji and tart Granny Smith.
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Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like ginger or cloves for a more complex flavor.
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Make it ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container, and let the flavors meld together overnight.
Apple Cake FAQs
Can I use different types of sweeteners?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for about a week.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake after it cools completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Try your hand at this wonderful Apple Cake recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a perfect sweet treat that balances sweetness and warmth with every bite! Happy baking!