Description
Looking for a cozy, old-fashioned dessert that fills your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and apples? This Southern Apple Cake is a timeless favorite, perfect for those craving easy dessert ideas, quick fall baking recipes, or cozy breakfast treats. It’s incredibly moist thanks to fresh grated apples, warmly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and perfect for holiday tables or everyday indulgence. Whether you’re serving it as a quick breakfast, an easy dinner dessert, or a healthy-ish snack, this Southern classic is always a hit.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon 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 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups peeled and grated apples
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Fold in grated apples to the wet mixture using a spatula.
6. Add the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
7. Fold in nuts and raisins if using.
8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool for 15–20 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing.
Notes
For best flavor, let the cake rest overnight — it becomes even more moist and flavorful.
Use grated apples rather than chopped to ensure even moisture and texture.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with cream cheese glaze for a finishing touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg