Name: Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Ingredients

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)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prepare for the batter.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and walnuts, if using, to evenly distribute them in the batter.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, use a tart apple like Granny Smith. If you prefer a nut-free cake, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with chopped pecans or raisins.

You can spice up the cake by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for a deeper flavor.

If you don’t have grated apples, finely chop them and drain any excess juice before folding into the batter to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this cake?

Yes, you can use any apple variety, but tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to the sweetness and hold up well in baking. Sweeter apples may result in a softer texture.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan butter and vegan cream cheese, and ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free.