Southern Apple Cake

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Moist, fragrant, and full of warm spices, Southern Apple Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a cozy hug from your grandma’s kitchen. Made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg, each bite delivers a balance of sweetness and spice that’s simply irresistible. The cake is incredibly moist thanks to the juicy apples, and the tender crumb is dotted with bursts of flavor from raisins or nuts, depending on your personal touch. It’s dusted lightly with powdered sugar, giving it a beautiful finish and just the right hint of extra sweetness.

Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday tables, or even as a comforting breakfast treat, this cake carries the heart of Southern baking traditions. It’s unfussy, homey, and dependable — a cake that never fails to satisfy. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cold with a cup of coffee, this old-fashioned delight is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Apple Cake

This cake stands out for its deep flavor and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It requires simple pantry staples and seasonal apples, making it an affordable yet crowd-pleasing treat. Unlike fancier desserts, it’s rustic and easy to make without compromising on taste or presentation. It’s great for making ahead, and the flavors only deepen over time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started with Southern Apple Cake, gather the following tools: a large mixing bowl, a whisk or electric hand mixer, a 9×13-inch baking pan, a wooden spoon, a rubber spatula, and a box grater or food processor for shredding apples. The large bowl allows for easy mixing without spills. The whisk or mixer ensures a smooth batter. The baking pan gives the cake its classic slab shape, while the rubber spatula helps you get every last bit of batter. Grating the apples releases their juice, which infuses moisture directly into the cake.

Preparation Tips

Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture. Peel and grate the apples just before mixing them in to prevent browning. Don’t overmix the batter – just combine until no dry streaks remain. If you like a bit of crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts. For extra warmth, you can increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of clove. Always grease your pan well or use parchment paper to avoid sticking. Let the cake cool slightly before slicing to help it set properly.

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Ingredients for this Southern Apple Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups peeled and grated apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup and removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples

Add the grated apples to the wet mixture and fold them in using a spatula. The apples will add natural moisture and texture, making the cake wonderfully tender.

Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix gently until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Add Nuts and Raisins (Optional)

If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts and raisins or dried cranberries. These add a lovely crunch and bursts of sweetness, enhancing the traditional Southern flair.

Step 7: Pour and Smooth the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure the batter reaches all corners for uniform baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.

Step 9: Cool and Dust

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic finish.

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Notes

Southern Apple Cake is a perfect make-ahead dessert. In fact, the flavor tends to deepen the next day as the spices meld and the moisture from the apples fully distributes throughout the cake. If you prefer a denser texture, let it rest overnight before serving. For a more decadent touch, drizzle it with a cream cheese glaze or caramel sauce. This recipe is also highly adaptable — you can swap out the nuts for shredded coconut or omit the raisins entirely if you prefer a simpler taste.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using the wrong apples: Avoid overly soft or sweet apples like Red Delicious. Use firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense, rubbery cake. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
• Not grating the apples: Chopping apples doesn’t provide the same moisture or consistency. Grating helps distribute their flavor evenly.
• Skipping the pan prep: This cake can stick! Always grease well or line with parchment.
• Not testing for doneness: Ovens vary, so always insert a toothpick to check if the center is fully baked.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week — just let it come to room temperature before serving to restore its texture. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or gently warm in the microwave before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 330
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use applesauce instead of grated apples?

Grated apples are essential for texture and moisture. Applesauce won’t give the same consistency, but you can substitute a portion if needed.

What’s the best type of apple to use?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best. They hold up during baking and balance the sweetness.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the right structure.

How do I make this cake vegan?

Swap the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), use plant-based butter, and check that your sugar is vegan-certified.

Should I peel the apples?

Yes, peeling the apples helps them blend more smoothly into the batter and avoids unwanted chewy texture.

Can I bake this in a bundt pan?

You can! Make sure to grease the pan well. The baking time may increase by 10–15 minutes depending on the depth.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can use all white sugar, but the flavor will be less rich. Add 1 tsp molasses per 1/2 cup of white sugar for a substitute.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce it by about 1/4 cup without major issues. Keep in mind it may slightly affect texture and moisture.

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Conclusion

Southern Apple Cake is a warm, spiced, deeply satisfying dessert that’s perfect for nearly any occasion. With its simple preparation, adaptable ingredients, and timeless flavor, it’s a recipe worth adding to your seasonal baking list. Whether you enjoy it with coffee in the morning or as an evening dessert, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that captures the heart of Southern comfort baking.

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