Apple Loaf Cake

by
Delicious homemade Apple Loaf Cake with spices and fresh apples.

Apple Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that brings the warmth of fall into your kitchen year-round. With its sweet, spiced flavors and tender crumb, this cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack. The best part? It’s simple to make and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. So, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a casual cup of coffee with a friend, this Apple Loaf Cake will make the moment feel special.

Gather Your Apple Loaf Cake Ingredients

To whip up this delicious Apple Loaf Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
  • 1 tsp baking soda (5g)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (3g)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon (2g)
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg (1g)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (5ml)
  • 2 cups peeled, chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) (60g)

Step-by-Step Apple Loaf Cake Recipe

Making your Apple Loaf Cake is easy and fun! Follow these steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set it aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, along with the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
  6. Fold in the chopped apples and nuts, if you’re using them.
  7. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake it in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Once it’s done, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow cooling before slicing and serving.

Serve & Enjoy Apple Loaf Cake

This Apple Loaf Cake is best served warm or at room temperature. Slice the loaf thickly and consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.

For a delightful twist, try drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon or serve it with more chopped nuts for added crunch.

Expert Tips for Apple Loaf Cake

  • Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, choose a firm, sweet apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. These apples hold their shape well and add moisture to the loaf.
  • Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. You can add more cinnamon or even experiment with a pinch of ginger for a zesty kick.
  • Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze slices in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

Apple Loaf Cake FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just note that it might yield a denser loaf.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or applesauce, and ensure your sugar is non-bone char filtered.

3. How can I tell when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake it!

Baking an Apple Loaf Cake is a great way to bring a touch of comfort to your day. I hope you try this recipe and enjoy every slice! Happy baking!