This apple cake recipe is a delicious way to celebrate fresh apples. It’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make with basic ingredients. The chunks of real apple throughout add texture and natural sweetness, while cinnamon and vanilla bring warmth and depth. It’s great served on its own, with whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also keeps well, making it perfect for make-ahead treats.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples, peeled and chopped
All-purpose flour
Sugar
Eggs
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Baking powder
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Vanilla extract
Salt
Optional: chopped nuts or raisins
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or round cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the chopped apples (and nuts or raisins, if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack or serving directly from the pan.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 servings. Preparation time: 15–20 minutes Baking time: 40–50 minutes Total time: around 1 hour
Variations
Apple Spice Cake: Add ground nutmeg, cloves, or allspice for extra warmth.
Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Apple Walnut Cake: Add chopped walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Glazed Apple Cake: Top with a simple powdered sugar glaze once the cake is cool.
Vegan Apple Cake: Use plant-based milk and a flax egg substitute for an eggless version.
Storage/Reheating
Store the apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
FAQs
What are the best apples to use for apple cake?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well, as they hold their shape and balance the sweetness.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the skins on for more texture and fiber.
Can I use applesauce instead of oil?
Yes, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to oil, though it may slightly change the texture.
How do I know when the apple cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
Is this cake sweet enough without frosting?
Yes, the apples and sugar make it naturally sweet and flavorful, but you can add a glaze or dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Can I make this into cupcakes?
Yes, pour the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Can I add other fruits to the cake?
Chopped pears or cranberries can be added along with apples for extra flavor.
Why did my cake turn out too dense?
Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds a richer, deeper flavor and works beautifully in apple cake recipes.
Conclusion
Apple cake is a timeless dessert that’s simple, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. With juicy apples, warm spices, and a moist crumb, it’s a wonderful treat for any time of year. Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a quick snack, this cake is sure to become a favorite.
Apple cake is a moist, flavorful dessert filled with chunks of fresh apples and warm spices like cinnamon and vanilla. It’s a cozy treat perfect for fall or any time of year.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
3 cups apples, peeled and chopped
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
3 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or round cake pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, sugar, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Fold in chopped apples and optional nuts or raisins.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before serving or transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for best results.Add nutmeg or cloves for extra spice.Drizzle caramel or glaze on top for added sweetness.Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.Freeze for up to 3 months wrapped tightly in plastic and foil.
