The Ultimate Fresh Apple Cake recipe
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of a freshly baked apple cake wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Whether you’re craving a cozy fall dessert or a crowd-pleasing treat for your next gathering, this Ultimate Fresh Apple Cake recipe is here to deliver.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of your cake providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Adds lightness to the texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – For that warm spiced flavor we all love.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – A subtle hint of nuttiness that complements the apples perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened – Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake without overpowering the apples.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Brings a deep caramel-like sweetness.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ cup buttermilk – Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
- Star of the Show:
- 3 cups peeled and diced apples about 2-3 medium apples – Use Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
- Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar – For a light elegant finish.
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream – Perfect for serving.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the right temperature for even baking.
- Prepare your cake pan: Line the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides with butter or non-stick spray.
- Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Set the mixture aside. This ensures your spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, cream together ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Mix until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and ½ cup buttermilk to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in 3 cups of peeled and diced apples using a spatula. This ensures the apples are evenly distributed without deflating the batter.
- Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Slice, serve, and watch as your homemade apple cake disappears in no time!
Notes
320 kcal per serving