There’s something extraordinarily comforting about the aroma of freshly baked apple cake wafting through your kitchen. This cake, my dear friend, holds a special place in my heart. I stumbled upon this recipe during a crisp autumn evening when my son and I decided to explore the art of baking. The result? An irresistible fresh apple cake, topped with creamy dream cheese frosting that left us both grinning from ear to ear. Trust me when I say, it was pure magic!
Why you’ll love this recipe
Imagine biting into a slice of warm, spiced apple cake, each forkful bursting with sweet, grated apples. The delightfully moist crumb combined with the rich, creamy frosting is truly a match made in dessert heaven.
But it’s not just the flavor that makes it special. Each slice tells a story—one of home, comfort, and the joys of sharing. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a weekday treat, this cake brings everyone to the table. Plus, it’s relatively simple to whip up, making it perfect for bakers of all levels. And who wouldn’t want to bask in the glow of compliments from those you serve it to? You’ll feel like a kitchen superstar without spending hours in the kitchen!
Gather these ingredients
Before we dive into mixing, let’s arm ourselves with the right ingredients.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of our cake. Choose a good quality flour for the best texture.
1 tsp baking soda: This little magic-maker gives our cake the lift it craves, transforming it from a dense brick into a light, fluffy masterpiece.
1/2 tsp salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness beautifully.
1 tsp cinnamon: Spice is the magical element here; it warms the heart and complements the apples splendidly.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creamy and dreamy, butter adds richness. Make sure it’s softened—this helps it cream perfectly with sugar.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness personified. It ensures our cake is not only sweet but also caramelizes ever so slightly for that gorgeous flavor.
2 large eggs: Binding and enriching, eggs help give our cake structure.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla captures the essence of all good things baked—don’t skimp here!
2 cups grated apples: The star! Use crisp, juicy apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for maximum flavor. Feel free to leave the skins on for a pop of color and fiber!
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): A delicious crunch, but if walnuts aren’t your jam, feel free to leave them out—or swap them for pecans!
8 oz cream cheese, softened: This creamy goodness is what dreams are made of when combined with frosting!
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Just a touch more creaminess for our luscious frosting.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweet snowflakes that make the frosting melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Because two vanillas are always better than one!
Preparing Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Now that we’ve rounded up our ingredient army, let’s get down to business.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Nothing quite like that warm, welcoming heat filling your kitchen.
Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Trust me, it’s a labor of love to prevent sticking!
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed—it’s like a dance party for your flour!
In another bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This could take about 3-5 minutes. Pro tip: don’t rush this! The air you whip in will make your cake dreamy.
Add the eggs, one at a time. Make sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract—ah, that aroma will have you swooning!
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Over-mixing can cause gluten to form, making your cake tough. We want tender, fluffy bites!
Now, fold in those grated apples and walnuts if you’re using them. It should look like a glorious, chunky batter calling your name.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake it for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.
Meanwhile, let’s whip up that dreamy frosting! Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the second vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
Once your cake is completely cooled, spread that luscious frosting over the top, and then look at what you’ve created—you masterpiece!
Best way to enjoy it
Let’s talk serving. This apple cake is delicious on its own, but I often find it paired beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream? Pure bliss.
For a cozy vibe, you could serve this delightful cake alongside a warm cup of cinnamon tea or rich black coffee. It transforms dessert into an experience – the sweet and spiced flavors combining with your drink of choice creates a symphony of joy.
How to store and freeze
Should you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), allow your cake to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll hold well for up to three months. Just be sure to allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before indulging again!
Helpful cooking tips
Want to take this cake to the next level? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Toast your walnuts: If you’re using them, give them a quick toast in a dry pan for extra flavor!
Don’t skip the grating: Grated apples dissolve into the cake, keeping it moist and tender rather than chunky. You can also blend it into applesauce for an even smoother texture if you prefer.
Experiment with spices: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger added to the cinnamon can create an incredibly warm and fragrant blend that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious variations:
Add spices: Nutmeg and ginger offer a warm twist if that’s your thing.
Swap frosting: A caramel drizzle over the cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious flair.
Fruit swap: Try this cake with pears instead of apples for something different. Just as scrumptious!
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a friendly swap.
Common questions
What’s the prep time?
Prep time is about 20 minutes, and baking takes about 30-35 minutes more.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for a few days.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes! Just ensure it’s properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
What apples work best?
Go for a mix of sweet and tart—Granny Smith and Fuji are fabulous!
Any tips for dietary adjustments?
Substituting egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce will cater to vegan diets and still yield a delightful cake.
Baking is a joy, and I hope you’ll find this apple cake recipe as heartwarming as I do. It’s about celebration, comfort, and the simple pleasures in life—so let’s embark on this delicious baking adventure together! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you; do come back and share your experiences or even a twist of your own!
Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Description
This fresh apple cake features delightful spiced flavors and is topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting, making it perfect for any occasion.Ingredients
For the Cake
For the Frosting
Instructions
Baking the Cake
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.This prevents sticking.Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.Don't rush this step!Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.Fold in Apples and Walnuts
Gently fold in the grated apples and walnuts if using.Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.Let cool completely in the pan.
Making the Frosting
Beat Cream Cheese and Butter
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.Add Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
Final Assembly
Frost the Cake
Once your cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting over the top.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13g20%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 150mg7%
- Potassium 150mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 25g
- Protein 3g6%
- Vitamin A 400 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 30 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 0 IU
- Vitamin K 0 mcg
- Thiamin 0 mg
- Riboflavin 0 mg
- Niacin 0 mg
- Vitamin B6 0 mg
- Folate 10 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0 mcg
- Biotin 0 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0 mg
- Phosphorus 40 mg
- Iodine 0 mcg
- Magnesium 0 mg
- Zinc 0 mg
- Selenium 0 mcg
- Copper 0 mg
- Manganese 0 mg
- Chromium 0 mcg
- Molybdenum 0 mcg
- Chloride 0 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
