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Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 139 reviews

This Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring fresh grated apples and warm cinnamon spice, topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this cake combines soft texture with a subtle crunch from optional walnuts, making it a delightful treat for apple lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake 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)

Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to combine. Set aside to ensure even distribution of leavening and spice.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 3-5 minutes. This step helps incorporate air for a tender crumb.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
  5. Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Gently fold the grated apples and optional chopped walnuts into the batter, distributing them evenly without deflating the batter.
  6. Prepare to Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
  7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  8. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
  9. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or knife.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve the cake at room temperature. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For extra moistness, peel the apples before grating if preferred, though the peel adds color and texture.
  • You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether if there are allergy concerns.
  • The cake can also be baked in a bundt pan or 9×13 inch pan; adjust baking time accordingly.
  • Ensure the cream cheese and butter for frosting are softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the frosting.
  • This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

Keywords: apple cake, fresh apples, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon cake, homemade apple dessert, moist apple cake, walnut apple cake

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/irresistible-fresh-apple-cake-recipe/