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 (for cake)

2 cups grated apples

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)

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 prevent sticking.

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 sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Carefully fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts if using.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

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

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

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, peel the apples before grating if you prefer a softer texture.

Substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.

Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients for a spicier flavor profile.

If you like a tangier frosting, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.

Storage

Store the apple cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. The cream cheese frosting makes it best enjoyed fresh, but you can also freeze the cake uncut for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?

Yes, you can use any firm apple variety such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp. Each will add a slightly different sweetness and texture, but all work well in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help maintain the cake’s structure.