Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
This fresh apple cake is a delightful treat, combining tender cake studded with grated apples and a hint of cinnamon. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion or a cozy afternoon dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and walnuts, if using, to distribute evenly.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Step 6: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
- Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice, serve, and enjoy your irresistible fresh apple cake!
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, peel the apples before grating, or use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a deeper flavor.
- Replace walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether to suit dietary preferences.
- If you prefer, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients for a warm spice variation.
- Make the cake a day ahead to let the flavors meld and the frosting set perfectly.
Storage
Store the apple cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use peeled or unpeeled apples?
Both peeled and unpeeled apples work well. Leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients, but peeling can make the cake softer and more uniformly textured.
What type of apples are best for this cake?
Firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best as they hold their texture and balance sweetness with acidity, enhancing the cake’s flavor.
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Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This irresistible fresh apple cake features tender, moist layers packed with grated apples and warm cinnamon, topped with a dreamy, smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy dessert, the addition of walnuts adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined. This mixture forms the base of the cake batter’s dry components.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air to help with the cake’s texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. Then fold in the grated apples and optional chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the completed batter into the prepared 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cake cools, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the surface. Slice into pieces and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and texture.
- Walnuts are optional; you can substitute with pecans or omit nuts for allergies.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Store the frosted cake in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for an extra layer of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon, walnut apple cake, moist apple cake, homemade dessert, fall dessert
