Description
This Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert loaded with grated apples and optional walnuts for added crunch. Baked to perfection and topped with a dreamy, creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake 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)
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking during baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps create a tender crumb.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts if using, incorporating them evenly into the batter.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost the cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or knife. Slice and serve your delicious apple cake.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether if preferred.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For extra moisture, use tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart apples.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, baked apple dessert, moist apple cake, easy apple cake recipe
