Easy Apple Cake
If you’re craving a cozy dessert that’s quick to whip up, this Easy Apple Cake is just what you need. Made with fresh apples, warm spices, and a tender crumb, it’s perfect for fall afternoons, family gatherings, or as a sweet breakfast treat with coffee.
No complicated steps, no special skills — just a simple, homestyle cake that delivers big flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & simple – Mix-and-bake recipe with no fuss.
- Moist & flavorful – Fresh apples keep the cake soft and juicy.
- Cozy spices – Cinnamon and nutmeg give it warm flavor.
- Versatile – Serve plain, dusted with sugar, or topped with cream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar (can sub half with brown sugar)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (or buttermilk for tang)
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for topping, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan (or line with parchment).
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Step 4: Combine Batter
- Add dry mixture to wet, alternating with milk, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in diced apples gently.
Step 5: Bake
- Spread batter into prepared pan.
- Sprinkle top with brown sugar (optional for crunch).
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Enjoy warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Tips & Variations
- Apple choice: Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, or a mix.
- Nutty twist: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Healthier option: Swap half the flour for whole wheat.
- Moisture boost: Stir in 2 tbsp applesauce or yogurt.
Why This Recipe Works
Fresh apples release their juices as they bake, keeping the cake moist and flavorful. The warm spices enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit, while the simple batter makes this cake easy enough for everyday baking.
Final Slice
Moist, spiced, and full of apple goodness, this Easy Apple Cake is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious — proof that sometimes the easiest desserts are the best.