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Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe

Apple Pie Layer Cake Recipe

4.8 from 21 reviews

This Apple Pie Layer Cake combines the spiced warmth of classic apple pie with the moist, tender layers of a cake. Featuring cinnamon-infused batter and a luscious apple filling, this dessert is perfect for occasions or cozy family gatherings. The cake is enhanced by a balance of brown sugar and sour cream, which adds richness and moisture, while the apple layers bring a fresh, fruity twist to every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons (90g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120mL) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar, light or dark
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240g) sour cream, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120mL) milk, at room temperature

Apple Filling

  • 6 tablespoons (90g) unsalted butter
  • 5 cups (590g) peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith apples
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar, light or dark
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
  2. Cream butter and sugars: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add eggs and vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine wet ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream and milk mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
  5. Prepare the apple filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the diced Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and coated with a thick, caramelized sauce, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. Assemble and bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly among the pans. Bake each layer for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  7. Layer the cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of the apple filling between each cake layer. Stack carefully to build the layer cake.
  8. Frost and serve: Optionally, frost the cake with your choice of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream. Slice and serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. Enjoy the delightful combination of spiced cake and caramelized apple layers!

Notes

  • Use Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
  • Make sure all wet ingredients (eggs, sour cream, milk) are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
  • The apple filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to enhance the flavors.
  • For frosting, cream cheese frosting complements the apple and cinnamon flavors beautifully.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple pie layer cake, apple cake, cinnamon cake, layered cake, fall dessert, spiced cake