Discover how to make a wonderfully moist Classic Cinnamon Fresh Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion. This apple cake recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even if you are new to baking, and promises a delicious treat every time. You’ll love this simple yet satisfying apple cake.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in your apple cake.
- Cinnamon: Essential for that classic apple cake taste. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard for baking; whole wheat pastry flour can be substituted for a slightly denser cake.
- Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil works well. Unsalted melted butter can also be used for a richer flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 5 minutes)
- 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 2-3 medium apples)
Optional Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, large mixing bowls, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents your apple cake from sticking and ensures easy removal.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps and everything is well combined for an even apple cake texture.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. This creates the liquid base for your moist apple cake.
4. Mix Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined; do not overmix, as this can make your apple cake tough. A few streaks of flour are okay.
5. Fold in Apples
Gently fold the diced apples into the batter. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the mixture so every slice of your apple cake has delicious fruit.
6. Pour into Pan and Add Topping
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. If using, mix the optional topping sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the top of the cake. This adds a lovely sweet, spiced crust to your apple cake.
7. Bake Your Apple Cake
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary, so start checking around 45 minutes for your perfect apple cake.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the apple cake to set properly and makes it easier to cut.
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Apple Cake: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter along with the apples for extra crunch.
- Caramel Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle your apple cake with a simple caramel sauce for an added layer of sweetness.
- Spiced Crumble Topping: Instead of the sugar-cinnamon sprinkle, make a simple crumble with flour, sugar, and cold butter to sprinkle over the batter before baking for a different texture on your apple cake.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of cream cheese can elevate this apple cake.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Classic Cinnamon Fresh Apple Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-30 seconds until just warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- What kind of apples are best for this apple cake recipe?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best as they hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Can I make this apple cake ahead of time?
Yes, this apple cake is excellent made a day in advance. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight.
- How do I prevent my apples from sinking to the bottom?
Tossing your diced apples with a tablespoon of the dry flour mixture before adding them to the batter can help them stay suspended.
- Can I freeze this apple cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices or the whole cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
- What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can easily make your own buttermilk substitute. Add 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup, then fill it to the 1/2 cup line with regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using in your apple cake.
- Is this apple cake recipe beginner-friendly?
Yes, this is an incredibly straightforward apple cake recipe, perfect for new bakers looking to create something delicious.