The Ultimate Homemade Apple Cake Recipe for Fall

As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than the aroma of a warm, homemade apple cake baking in the oven. This classic apple cake recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with the flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and fresh apples. Perfect for any occasion, this apple cake will become a family favorite.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this delectable cake and share some tips and tricks to get the perfect bake every time. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake

Apple cake is the perfect dessert for any time of year, but it’s especially comforting during the fall season. The combination of tart apples and sweet, spiced batter makes for a moist, flavorful cake that’s hard to resist.

Versatile: Perfect for dessert, a snack, or even breakfast.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients, this cake comes together quickly.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the process, let’s go over the ingredients:

3 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
1 cup of vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon of baking soda
½ teaspoon of salt
Optional: A pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra autumnal flavor.

Optional Topping

For a little extra crunch and sweetness, you can add a topping:

2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Cake

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s get baking!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or use two loaf pans if you prefer a more rustic look.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Set them aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. These dry ingredients form the base of your apple cake and give it structure.

Step 4: Beat the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the vegetable oil and continue mixing until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Once the batter is mixed, gently fold in the chopped apples. The apple pieces should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Transfer to the Baking Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan or loaf pans. If you’re using the optional topping, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top of the batter for a crispy, sweet crust.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re using loaf pans, the bake time may be closer to 60-70 minutes.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the apple cake warm or at room temperature, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Cake

Use Fresh Apples: The key to a flavorful apple cake is using fresh, firm apples. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are great choices because they hold their shape and add a nice tartness to balance the sweetness.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy cake. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
Customize Your Cake: This apple cake recipe is versatile. Feel free to add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch. You can also throw in some raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
Spices: While cinnamon is the traditional spice in apple cake, feel free to experiment with nutmeg, allspice, or even cardamom for a different twist on the classic flavor.
Make It Ahead: Apple cake tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time if you’re preparing for an event.

FAQs

Can I Freeze Apple Cake?

Yes! This apple cake freezes well. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.

What Are the Best Apples to Use in Apple Cake?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are the best options because they retain their shape during baking and offer a nice balance of tart and sweet flavors.

How Do I Store Apple Cake?

Store any leftover apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it well to keep it from drying out.

Conclusion

This homemade apple cake is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With its moist texture and the warmth of cinnamon, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it on its own — either way, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake the best apple cake you’ve ever tasted! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is simple, rewarding, and absolutely delicious.