Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe

There is something truly magical about the Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe that combines the best of two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. Imagine the comforting warmth of spiced apples baked within tender, fluffy cake layers, all brought together with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. This cake is the ultimate cozy comfort food that tastes like fall in every bite, yet it’s wonderful all year around. Once you give this recipe a try, you’ll understand why it has become such a cherished favorite to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the tender crumb to the sweet and spiced apple filling, these simple staples come together beautifully to make something truly special.

• All-purpose flour (3 cups / 360g): The foundation for a soft, moist cake that holds the layers perfectly without being too dense.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise just right, creating a light texture.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Works alongside baking soda for a balanced lift.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Infuses the cake and apples with warm, comforting spice.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons softened + 6 tablespoons for apples): Adds richness and helps achieve moist, tender layers and flavorful apple filling.
• Vegetable oil (1/2 cup / 120mL): Keeps cake layers moist and tender with a subtle richness.
• Brown sugar (1 cup packed + 1/2 cup packed for apples): Brings deep caramel sweetness that complements the spice and apple notes.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Balances sweetness and helps with cake structure.
• Large eggs (3 at room temperature): Provide structure and richness to the cake layers.
• Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds a lovely warm aroma and enhances overall flavor.
• Sour cream (1 cup / 240g at room temperature): Keeps the cake moist with a tender crumb and slight tanginess.
• Milk (1/2 cup / 120mL at room temperature): Lightens the batter and balances texture.
• Granny Smith apples (5 cups peeled, cored, and diced): Crisp and tart apples bring fresh fruitiness and body to the filling.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens and preserves the apple filling’s flavor.

How to Make Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by melting 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced Granny Smith apples, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is bubbling with a sticky, cinnamon-scented syrup. Set aside to cool completely. This filling brings that iconic apple pie flavor to your layer cake, making every bite rich and comforting.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures all your leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, giving the cake its perfect rise and warm spice notes.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugars

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and fluffy. This mixture is the secret to a moist and flavorful cake crumb. The blend of butter and oil offers richness and softness that will keep your cake irresistibly tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, beat in the eggs, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the pure vanilla extract. This process helps build a smooth, stable batter that will rise beautifully while filling your kitchen with an amazing aroma.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk and sour cream mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. Overmixing could toughen the batter, so keep it gentle to maintain a soft crumb. This step is crucial for the perfect balance of moistness and structure in your cake layers.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between three greased and floured 8-inch cake pans. Spread half of the cooled apple filling evenly over the batter in the first two pans before covering with the remaining batter. This layering technique sandwiches the delicious apples right inside the cake for that iconic taste and texture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes completely before frosting and stacking.

How to Serve Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To enhance the appearance and taste of your Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe, dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a bit of extra cinnamon. Fresh apple slices or a few toasted nuts on top can add lovely texture and visual appeal that makes the dessert even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which melts beautifully over the warm spices. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce complements the sweetness and adds an extra layer of indulgence that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual slices with a small scoop of cinnamon whipped cream in decorative dessert glasses. You can also cut mini versions of the cake into bars and serve as bite-sized treats at parties. The versatile nature of this Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe lends itself to so many creative presentations that are sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Pie Layer Cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for about 4 days without drying out.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store the fully assembled cake covered well with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to retain moisture and freshness.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or place it in a low oven (about 300°F / 150°C) for 10-15 minutes. This helps revive the custardy apple filling and restores the cake’s soft texture, making each bite just as delightful as fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a perfect tart contrast, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a sweeter twist. Just adjust the sugar slightly based on the apple’s natural sweetness.

Is this recipe suitable for making into cupcakes?

Yes! You can bake this batter in a cupcake tin lined with paper liners. Adjust baking time to about 18-22 minutes and add the apple filling as a surprise center or swirl it in the batter.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative. The texture and flavor will remain deliciously close to the original.

How should I frost the Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe?

Cream cheese frosting is a classic and wonderful choice that complements the spiced apples perfectly. You can also use vanilla buttercream or even a salted caramel drizzle to add richness.

Can I prepare the apple filling ahead of time?

Yes! The apple filling can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before assembling the cake to ensure even layers.

Final Thoughts

If you love the cozy flavors of apple pie and the delightfully soft texture of a layered cake, this Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe is a must-try. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for celebrations or a heartfelt treat any day. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share this delicious treasure with those you love.

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