Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade apple cake with this delightful recipe. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion, from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations. Learn how to bake this apple-infused treat and enjoy its warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness with every bite.
Ingredients for Apple Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups finely chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How to Make Apple Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with sour cream. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in chopped apples until evenly distributed in the batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- If desired, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts for the topping and sprinkle evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooled, cut into squares and serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Store any leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
About the Main Ingredients
Apples
Fresh apples add natural sweetness, moisture, and texture to the cake. Choose varieties like Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Gala for a sweeter taste. Chopping the apples finely ensures they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg
These warm spices complement the apples beautifully, adding depth of flavor and a comforting aroma. Adjust the spices to your taste preference, enhancing the cozy appeal of this apple cake.
Sour Cream
Sour cream contributes to the cake’s moist and tender crumb, ensuring it stays soft even after baking. It also adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the apples and sugars.
This homemade apple cake recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall or any time of year. Whether served as a dessert or a sweet treat with coffee or tea, this cake will surely become a favorite for your family and friends. Enjoy the process of baking and savoring this delicious apple-infused creation!
