Introduction to Easy Apple Cake Recipe
When it comes to comforting desserts, a fresh apple cake is hard to beat. This easy apple cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a warm slice of something sweet. Using readily available ingredients, this recipe yields a moist and tender cake that's brimming with lovely apple flavors. A soft texture and delicious aroma can fill your kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere just as autumn settles in.
Why Make an Easy Apple Cake?
You might wonder, why choose an easy apple cake? The answer is simple: it’s delicious and uncomplicated! Here’s why you should give this recipe a try:
- Time-efficient: With a prep time of just 30 minutes and a cooking time of 50 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dessert without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Versatile: This cake is fantastic on its own but can be dressed up with a buttery brown sugar glaze or a light dusting of confectioners' sugar.
- Great for gatherings: Serves 12, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family!
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious easy apple cake recipe. You’ll be glad you did! For more delightful baking ideas, check out Sally's Baking Addiction, where you can find additional tips and tricks from experienced bakers.
Ingredients for Easy Apple Cake
When it comes to baking an easy apple cake, having the right ingredients on hand makes all the difference. Let's break down what you need to whip up this delightful dessert!
Essential Ingredients
To create a tender and moist cake, gather the following essentials:
- All-purpose flour: 2 and ½ cups
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Baking soda: ¾ teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Ground spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice provide warmth and depth.
- Vegetable oil: 1 cup for moisture.
- Granulated sugar and brown sugar: 1 cup and ½ cup for sweetness.
- Applesauce: 1 cup adds moisture and flavor.
- Eggs: 4 large, at room temperature for structure.
- Vanilla extract and orange juice: 1 teaspoon and 2 tablespoons enhance flavor.
- Chopped apples: 3 cups, a mix of sweet and tart for the best taste.
Optional Ingredients for the Glaze
Want to take your easy apple cake recipe to the next level? Consider adding a luscious brown sugar glaze! For that, you'll need:
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup
- Brown sugar: 1 cup
- Heavy cream: ½ cup for richness
- Pinch of salt: to balance sweetness
- Confectioners’ sugar: ½ cup, sifted for the perfect finish.
Feeling inspired? Get started on your easy apple cake today, and treat yourself to a slice of autumn bliss! For more about ingredient measurements, check out this resource on proper baking techniques.
Preparing Easy Apple Cake
Making this easy apple cake recipe is a delightful way to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of baked apples and spices. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, these straightforward steps will set you up for success. Let’s dive in!
Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and give it a generous greasing. This ensures that your cake slides out smoothly once baked. You can use butter, cooking spray, or even line the pan with parchment paper for extra assurance.
Combine dry ingredients
Next, it’s time to gather your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon each of ground ginger and allspice
Mix these until they are well combined. This step not only helps in flavor distribution but also ensures even rising. It might seem like a lot of spices, but trust me, they elevate your easy apple cake to another level!
Mix wet ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, blend the wet ingredients. You’ll need:
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
Whisk these components vigorously until they create a smooth mixture. The trick here is to make sure everything is combined thoroughly, which is key to obtaining that tender texture.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
Time to unite the mixtures! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing your dry mix. Use a whisk to combine everything just until it’s mixed. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy; over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.
Fold in the apples
Now comes the star of the show—the apples! Gently fold in 3 cups of peeled and chopped apples (about 2-3 large apples) into your batter. Don't skimp; all that fruity goodness is what makes this cake so special!
Bake the cake to perfection
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s ready! Remember, baking times can vary, so keep an eye on it. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil around the 30-minute mark.
Let your cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. You can enjoy it plain or drizzle it with a luscious brown sugar glaze for that extra touch.
Enjoy your homemade easy apple cake, and share it with friends and family for maximum smiles! For more delicious recipes, check out sources like Food Network or Bon Appetit.
Variations on Easy Apple Cake
Adding Nuts or Raisins
If you love a little crunch or chew, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins to your easy apple cake recipe. Simply fold in about a cup of your chosen ingredient into the batter for added texture and flavor. Not only does this variation enhance the cake, but it also boosts its nutritional value. You can find some delightful nut combinations here.
Attempting a Gluten-Free Version
Want to enjoy this cake without the gluten? Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, or use almond flour for a nutty twist. Agave syrup can also substitute for granulated sugar for a healthier touch. Just remember, gluten-free baking can be a bit tricky, so checking out resources like King Arthur Baking can offer you invaluable tips and tricks!
Baking Notes for Easy Apple Cake
Tips for Optimal Baking Results
Baking the perfect easy apple cake can be a delightful experience. Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure success:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and applesauce are at room temperature; they blend better with the other ingredients, leading to a fluffier batter.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
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Apple Variety Matters: For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet (like Honeycrisp) and tart (like Granny Smith) apples. This balance enhances the taste.
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Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary. Start checking your cake a few minutes early to prevent overbaking. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
These simple tips will elevate your easy apple cake recipe, making it a beloved dessert in your home. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Apple Cake
How to Serve Warm or with Toppings
There's something incredibly inviting about a warm slice of easy apple cake. Whether it's dusted with confectioners’ sugar or drizzled with the decadent brown sugar glaze, it’s sure to impress! For an added twist, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pairing with Beverages
To elevate your dessert experience, consider pairing your apple cake with a warm beverage. A cup of spiced chai or hot apple cider complements the flavors perfectly. If you’re looking for something cooler, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water infused with lemon can balance the sweetness.
Feel free to explore more about pairing desserts with beverages on Food & Wine. Enjoy your baking!
Tips for Making Perfect Easy Apple Cake
Creating the ideal Easy Apple Cake is straightforward with a few handy tips. Here’s how to ensure your dessert turns out moist and flavorful:
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Choose the Right Apples: A blend of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, adds depth of flavor. This combo will elevate your cake’s taste!
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Proper Measurement: Accurately measure your flour—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for the best results. For a visual guide, check out this baking measurement tutorial.
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Mixing Technique: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. It's okay if the batter seems thick; it's the lots of apple pieces that make it delightful!
Experimenting with these techniques will ensure you master this easy apple cake recipe in no time. Happy baking!
Time Details for Easy Apple Cake
Preparation Time
Getting your easy apple cake recipe started will take about 30 minutes. This time allows you to gather your ingredients, chop those delicious apples, and mix everything together. It’s a great time to put on your favorite playlist or podcast!
Baking Time
Your cake will need around 45–50 minutes in the oven. Make sure to keep an eye on it, as every oven is a bit different! It’s all about that perfect golden brown finish and, of course, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
Total Time
From start to finish, including cooling time, the total time for your apple cake will be approximately 2 hours. You’ll want to let it cool for at least 30 minutes before digging in—unless you can’t resist a warm slice, of course!
For more tips on perfecting your baking routine, you might enjoy checking out resources like America’s Test Kitchen for techniques that will elevate your baking skills!
Nutritional Information for Easy Apple Cake
Calories
A slice of this easy apple cake recipe packs about 300 calories. It's a delightful treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without going overboard!
Protein
You'll also enjoy a decent boost of 4 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the eggs and applesauce, which help to keep you feeling full longer.
Sodium
With only 150 milligrams of sodium, this cake is a heart-healthy option compared to many desserts—perfect for a guilt-free indulgence!
For more insights on healthy eating, consider checking out the USDA's dietary guidelines.
FAQs about Easy Apple Cake
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! For the easy apple cake recipe, using a variety of apples can really enhance the flavor. A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, works wonderfully. If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to stick with sweeter varieties!
How can I store leftover apple cake?
To keep your delicious cake fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just note that if you've dusted it with confectioners’ sugar, it may melt into the cake over time.
Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare your easy apple cake up to step 5, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze it for 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before bringing it back to room temperature and completing the glaze. This way, you can enjoy the cake at its best, even days later!
For more tips, check out resources from Allrecipes and BBC Good Food.
Conclusion on Easy Apple Cake
In summary, this easy apple cake recipe is a delightful way to bring the comforting flavors of fall into your kitchen any time of year. Moist and adaptable, you can enjoy it plain, dusted with sugar, or drizzled with a sweet brown sugar glaze. Share it with family and friends, and watch your loved ones savor every slice! For more delightful recipes, check out our baking essentials to elevate your baking game further.
Easy Apple Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- medium bowl
- large bowl
- whisk
- Medium saucepan
- wire rack
Ingredients
Cake
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour [spooned & leveled]
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.75 teaspoons baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoons ground ginger
- 0.25 teaspoons allspice
- 1 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 Tablespoons orange juice
- 3 cups peeled chopped apples ½-inch chunks, about 2–3 large apples
Optional: Brown Sugar Glaze
- 0.25 cups unsalted butter
- 1 cups packed light or dark brown sugar
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- small pinch of salt
- 0.5 cups confectioner’s sugar [sifted]
Instructions
Make the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice together in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Whisk the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange juice together in a medium bowl. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until combined. Fold in the chopped apples until combined. It will seem like a lot of apples and that’s ok!
- Pour and spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes. Baking times vary, so keep an eye on it. Around the 30-minute mark, loosely tent with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and set the pan on a wire rack. Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before topping or serving.
- Right before serving, you can top the slightly warm cake with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar or make the brown sugar glaze in the next step.
Make the Glaze
- As the cake cools, prepare the brown sugar glaze. Combine the butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and pinch of salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter has melted, and then stop stirring and let the mixture come to a rapid boil. Boil for 1 minute. Turn the heat down to low, give it a quick stir, and let simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and whisk in the sifted confectioners’ sugar. Allow glaze to cool and slightly thicken for at least 20 minutes. Spoon glaze over the cake right before serving. (Cake can still be warm when glazing.) If your glaze thickened up too much as it cooled, warm in the microwave for 15 seconds and stir until smooth.
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