Apple Cake Recipes
There’s something timeless and comforting about apple cake. The sweet aroma of apples baking with cinnamon and nutmeg fills the kitchen with warmth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekend treat, apple cake is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Below are three uniquely delicious apple cake recipes—from a classic version to a rich caramel-drizzled one and a hearty apple walnut cake. Each one brings out the best of this beloved fruit.
1. Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake
Description:
This moist and tender cake is a beloved staple that emphasizes the natural sweetness and texture of fresh apples. It's perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or a rustic dessert.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
2 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla and sour cream.
Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Fold in chopped apples.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Why It Works:
The sour cream adds moisture and tang, while the chopped apples stay slightly firm, giving the cake a lovely bite. This cake is great served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
2. Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake
Description:
This indulgent dessert flips the traditional apple cake on its head—literally. Caramelized apple slices form a glossy, sticky topping over a dense and buttery cake.
Ingredients:
For the topping:
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup packed brown sugar
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin
For the cake:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Make the topping: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in brown sugar until smooth. Pour into the cake pan and spread evenly. Arrange apple slices on top in a circular pattern.
Make the cake batter: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
Add the dry ingredients alternately with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
Carefully spread the batter over the apples in the pan.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
Why It Works:
The buttery brown sugar glaze bakes into the apples, turning soft and rich. When flipped, the apples glisten on top, giving the cake an elegant and irresistible finish.
3. Rustic Apple Walnut Cake with Maple Glaze
Description:
This hearty, nutty apple cake is ideal for fall gatherings or as a cozy family dessert. It’s filled with chunks of apple and crunchy walnuts, and finished with a warm maple glaze.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon allspice
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup milk
2 cups diced apples (peeled)
¾ cup chopped walnuts
For the glaze:
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup pure maple syrup
½ cup powdered sugar
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch pan or a bundt pan.
In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt.
In another bowl, beat sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in milk.
Mix dry and wet ingredients just until combined. Fold in apples and walnuts.
Pour into the pan and smooth the top.
Bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool slightly in the pan while making the glaze.
For the glaze: In a small saucepan, melt butter and stir in maple syrup. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and salt until smooth.
Drizzle glaze over warm cake.
Why It Works:
The walnuts add texture, and the maple glaze creates a sweet, slightly smoky finish. This cake travels well and is great for potlucks or autumn picnics.
Apple Cake Tips for Best Results
Choose the Right Apples:
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the cake. Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious.
Don’t Overmix:
Once the dry ingredients are added to the wet, mix only until just combined to avoid a dense or tough cake.
Enhance the Flavor:
A splash of apple cider, a hint of ginger, or a few raisins can deepen the flavor. For a boozy twist, soak raisins in rum or bourbon before adding.
Storage:
Apple cakes stay moist and even taste better the next day. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week.
Apple cake is a classic for a reason—its sweet fruitiness, moist texture, and warm spices offer comfort in every bite. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a cinnamon-scented classic, the richness of an upside-down caramel apple cake, or the nutty earthiness of a rustic maple-drizzled version, these recipes provide plenty of inspiration. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite ingredients, from different apple varieties to seasonal spices and toppings. Happy baking!
Helpful Reading
Carrot Cake Recipes and Cornbread Recipes
https://www.amazon.com/Carrot-Cake-Recipes-Cornbread-Breakfast-ebook/dp/B0DJFHM3QQ
Phyllo Dough Breakfast and Dessert Recipes and Meatloaf Recipes
https://www.amazon.com/Phyllo-Dessert-Breakfast-Recipes-Meatloaf-ebook/dp/B0DMKZF4ZD/
Cubed Steak Recipes and Recipes for Sauces
https://www.amazon.com/Cubed-Steak-Recipes-Sauces-Delicious-ebook/dp/B0DS55K36N/
Salmon Recipes and Potato Recipes
https://www.amazon.com/Salmon-Recipes-Potato-Boxed-Family-ebook/dp/B0DBMLNDPJ/
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