There’s something truly comforting about the smell of apples baking in the oven. This Apple Cake is a lovely way to showcase fresh apples while providing a moist, flavorful dessert. It’s not overly sweet, making it perfect for an afternoon snack or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, so don’t worry if you’re not a pro baker. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up extra apples you may have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure anyone can whip this up quickly.
- Uses Fresh Apples: Highlighting fresh fruit makes this cake seasonal and delicious.
- Perfectly Moist: The sour cream keeps the cake moist for days.
- Customizable: Add nuts or dried fruits for an extra crunch or flavor.
- Great for Any Occasion: Serve it at family gatherings, or enjoy it with your morning coffee.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar (or extract)
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (70 ml) vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup (130 g) sour cream
- 1¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 to 4 medium apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for topping)
- Cinnamon (optional)
- 3 tablespoons (50 g) all-purpose flour (for topping)
- 3 tablespoons (50 g) sugar (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons (40 g) butter, softened (for topping)
Ingredient Notes
Using fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp can elevate the flavor of this cake. If you don’t have vanilla sugar, regular granulated sugar works just fine; however, a little vanilla extract will still give a nice flavor boost.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Round cake pan (9-inch or similar)
- Peeler and knife for the apples
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, salt, vanilla sugar, and granulated sugar together until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Gradually add in the vegetable oil and sour cream as you mix, ensuring everything is blended smoothly.
- Sift together the flour and baking powder, and fold into the mixture until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
- Peel and chop the apples, then gently fold them into the batter, adding cinnamon if you like.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and level the top with a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, mix the 3 tablespoons of flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of softened butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping over the cake batter for added texture.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips
- Let your apples sit in a little sugar and cinnamon for about 10 minutes before mixing into the batter for enhanced sweetness.
- Avoid over-mixing your batter; this keeps the cake fluffier.
- For a spiced flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Common Mistakes
- Not greasing the pan properly can lead to sticking.
- Overbaking the cake will dry it out—start checking for doneness at 35 minutes.
- Forgetting to fold in wet ingredients gradually may lead to lumps in your batter.
Variations
- Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Replace apples with other fruits like pears or peaches, which also work wonderfully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerated, it can last up to a week, but be sure to let it come back to room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, pop it in a 350°F (180°C) oven for about 5 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Nutrition Estimate
Approximate per slice (based on 12 slices): 180 calories, 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, 7g fat.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert
Calories: 180 (per slice)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! Any firm apple will work, but sweet varieties enhance the flavor.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
What can I serve with the cake?
This cake is delightful on its own but also pairs well with ice cream or a creamy sauce.
How can I tell when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
This Apple Cake is a beloved recipe you’ll keep returning to—enjoy sharing it with family and friends!
Apple Cake
This Apple Cake is a moist dessert showcasing fresh apples, perfect for afternoon snacking or served warm with ice cream. Easy to make and customizable, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion.
Main Ingredients
- 2 large large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar (or extract) (Regular granulated sugar can be used, but a bit of vanilla extract enhances flavor.)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream (Keeps the cake moist.)
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 to 4 medium apples, peeled and chopped (Use fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.)
Topping Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sugar (For topping.)
- Cinnamon (optional)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (For topping.)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (For topping.)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened (For topping.)
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, salt, vanilla sugar, and granulated sugar together until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Gradually add in the vegetable oil and sour cream as you mix, ensuring everything is blended smoothly.
- Sift together the flour and baking powder, and fold into the mixture until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
- Peel and chop the apples, then gently fold them into the batter, adding cinnamon if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and level the top with a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, mix the 3 tablespoons of flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of softened butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping over the cake batter.
Baking
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Let your apples sit in a little sugar and cinnamon for about 10 minutes before mixing into the batter for enhanced sweetness. Avoid over-mixing for fluffier cake. For a spiced flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon. Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
