Apple Cake is a wonderfully moist and flavorful dessert that captures the essence of fall with its aromatic blend of apples, cinnamon, and warm spices. This cake is perfect for showcasing fresh, crisp apples, making it an ideal treat during apple season or for any time you crave a comforting homemade dessert. The tender crumb is filled with chunks of juicy apples, creating a delicious contrast in texture with every bite. Serve it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a festive dessert, Apple Cake is sure to delight with its inviting aroma and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
This Apple Cake is a deliciously spiced and moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, bringing the warm flavors of fall into your kitchen with every bite. Enjoy the comforting taste and delightful aroma of freshly baked apples and spices!
