Best Apple Cake

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There’s something about the aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and caramel that instantly brings comfort, and that’s exactly what inspired me to make this Best Apple Cake. It’s not overly complicated, but the flavors come together in a way that tastes like home. I wanted a dessert that felt indulgent without being too sweet, and that allowed the apples to shine without being overwhelmed by the batter.

This cake is everything I love about fall baking — tender, moist, full of fresh apples, and topped with a drizzle of homemade caramel. The crumb is soft yet sturdy enough to hold chunks of baked apples, while a touch of spice rounds out the flavor beautifully. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, this one is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Best Apple Cake

• It’s loaded with fresh apples in every bite — sweet, juicy, and perfectly baked.
• No mixer needed! Just simple, wholesome ingredients and a wooden spoon.
• The caramel drizzle on top takes it to the next level of indulgence.
• Stays moist for days, making it perfect for make-ahead desserts.
• A beautiful balance of sweetness and spice that works for breakfast or dessert.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples to get the best flavor and texture contrast. Think Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala paired with something like Granny Smith. The tartness keeps the cake from becoming cloyingly sweet, and the apple slices hold their shape well when baked.

Options for Substitutions

• Flour: You can swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend if needed.
• Butter: Use melted coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a non-dairy version.
• Eggs: Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
• Caramel drizzle: A simple powdered sugar glaze works great if you want something lighter.
• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.

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Ingredients for this Best Apple Cake

• Apples: The heart of the cake — use a mix of tart and sweet apples for flavor balance and texture. Thin slices or small cubes ensure they bake evenly into the crumb.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the batter, giving the cake structure while keeping it tender.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar for sweetness and lightness in the crumb, and brown sugar for rich, caramel-like depth.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness; they also help bind the ingredients together.
• Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the batter; melted butter makes mixing easy.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leaveners help the cake rise and create a soft, fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon & nutmeg: Warm spices that complement the apples and give the cake that classic fall flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and gives the cake a home-baked warmth.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the overall flavor.
• Yogurt or sour cream: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans — for added texture and nutty flavor.

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Step 1: Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice or dice the apples, depending on your texture preference. Toss them with a little cinnamon and sugar if desired for extra flavor. Set them aside while you prepare the batter so they start to release their juices.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar (both granulated and brown), eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then stir in the yogurt or sour cream. This mixture should be thick, creamy, and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix — it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy. Fold in the chopped apples (and nuts if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Pour Into Pan and Bake

Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or bundt pan and pour the batter in. Smooth the top and give the pan a few gentle taps on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Add Toppings

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, drizzle with caramel sauce or a simple glaze. You can also dust it with powdered sugar for a more classic look.

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How Long to Prepare the Best Apple Cake

Prep Time: Preparing the ingredients, especially peeling and slicing the apples, takes about 20–25 minutes. This includes mixing both the wet and dry components, and prepping your baking pan.

Bake Time: The cake takes approximately 50–60 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). After baking, allow an additional 10–15 minutes to cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

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Tips for Perfect Best Apple Cake

• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter — a gentle stir is enough once dry ingredients are added.
• Toss apples in cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor before folding them into the batter.
• A light dusting of flour on the apple pieces helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
• If the top is browning too quickly, tent the cake with foil halfway through baking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using only one type of apple: A mix of tart and sweet apples creates better depth of flavor.
• Skipping the cooling time: Slicing too early can make the cake fall apart and lose moisture.
• Incorrect pan size: A pan that’s too small may cause overflow; stick to a 9-inch round or bundt pan.
• Underbaking: Always check with a toothpick — the center should come out clean.
• Neglecting to grease the pan: Even non-stick pans need a layer of butter or parchment to prevent sticking.

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What to Serve With Best Apple Cake?

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly into the warm cake.

2. Whipped Cream

Light and airy, whipped cream adds a soft contrast to the dense crumb.

3. Salted Caramel Sauce

A decadent drizzle that amplifies the caramel notes in the cake.

4. Hot Apple Cider

Pairs wonderfully on a crisp day, enhancing the apple flavor even more.

5. Sharp Cheddar Cheese

For a savory-sweet combo, a slice of aged cheddar brings surprising balance.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator: It will last up to 5 days in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before serving, or warm slices slightly for the best texture and flavor.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per slice, based on 10 servings)

• Calories: ~320
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Cholesterol: 65mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the apples from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the apple slices in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps them stay suspended during baking.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, the flavors develop even more after a day. Just store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I use applesauce instead of chopped apples?

While applesauce can add moisture, it won’t provide the same texture. For best results, stick with fresh apples.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Avoid wet batter on the tester.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Avoid almond or coconut flour alone, as they change the texture significantly.

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Conclusion

This Best Apple Cake delivers everything you crave in a cozy dessert — tender apples, warm spices, rich crumb, and just enough indulgence with that caramel drizzle. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or enjoying a leftover slice with your morning coffee, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for potlucks, holiday tables, or casual baking days, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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