Print

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 97 reviews

This irresistible fresh apple cake features a moist, spiced batter loaded with grated apples and optional walnuts, topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or a comforting dessert any time of year, this cake combines tender crumb with warm cinnamon notes and a luscious frosting finish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups grated apples
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined to ensure the cake is well-spiced throughout.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which adds air to the batter for a tender texture.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
  6. Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Carefully fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts (if using), distributing them evenly throughout the batter for bursts of flavor and texture.
  7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
  8. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to ensure the frosting doesn’t melt when applied.
  9. Prepare Frosting: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
  10. Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then slice into portions and serve this delicious apple cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
  • Ensure the apples are well-drained if very juicy to prevent a soggy cake.
  • Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the frosting fresh.
  • Let the cake come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon apple cake, fall desserts, walnut apple cake

Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/irresistible-fresh-apple-cake-recipe/