Description
This apple cake is a comforting and flavorful dessert, perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and a moist cake creates a delightful treat that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or simply dusted with powdered sugar, this cake is a celebration of fall flavors. It’s easy to make and adaptable to your preferences, making it a staple recipe for any home baker.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 cups peeled and diced apples (about 4 medium apples)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Preparation
- Write as:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, leading to a consistent texture.
Step 3:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a tender cake.
Step 4:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Adding eggs gradually helps them emulsify properly into the batter.
Step 5:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Alternating the wet and dry ingredients ensures a smooth batter without overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake.
Step 6:
Fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed. Gently fold to avoid breaking down the apples and incorporating them evenly.
Step 7:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it evenly.
Step 8:
Bake for 45-50 minutes for a 9×13 pan or 30-35 minutes for round pans, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates that the cake is fully baked.
Step 9:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from breaking apart during the transfer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple cake is incredibly moist and flavorful, making it a delightful treat for any time of day. The blend of cinnamon and apples creates a warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. It’s also a versatile recipe that can be easily customized with different types of nuts or spices to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginner bakers to master, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice into the batter.
- Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor profile.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes (for 9×13 pan), 30-35 minutes (for round pans)
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: Approximately 5g per serving
Sodium: Approximately 200mg per serving
Conclusion
This Delicious Apple Cake recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of home baking. With its moist texture, warm spices, and sweet apple flavor, it’s a dessert that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a consistently delicious result. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure comfort!
Q&A About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour?
- A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser and nuttier cake. However, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid to achieve the right consistency.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- A: Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture.
Q3: What other nuts can I use besides walnuts or pecans?
- A: You can use any nuts you like, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts. Just make sure they are chopped and evenly distributed in the batter.
Q4: Can I add a glaze to this cake?
- A: Yes, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice would be a delicious addition. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for extra sweetness and flavor.
Q5: How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the cake?
- A: To prevent the apples from sinking, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps them stay suspended throughout the cake.
