Easy Apple Cake

If you have been looking for a simple, yet delicious Apple Cake 🍎 recipe, you’ve come to the right place. My mom’s Easy Apple Cake involves only a few basic ingredients that get mixed together, and even if the mixture is lumpy, it will still turn out perfectly! It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy dessert at home. This cake is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake ready to bake in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and a rich milk topping creates a delightful taste you’ll love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm as a dessert or enjoy it cold with coffee for breakfast.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is budget-friendly and accessible.
• Happy Memories: This Easy Apple Cake brings back memories of family gatherings and cherished moments.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving that perfect Easy Apple Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 7-inch springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 7-inch springform pan: Perfect for easy release of the cake after baking without damaging its shape.
• Mixing bowl: A large enough bowl allows you to mix everything thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining wet ingredients quickly and effectively.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this Easy Apple Cake:

• 1 cup sifted all-purpose flour
• ½ cup sugar
• ¾ tablespoon baking powder (make sure it’s not expired)
• 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
• ½ cup avocado oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
• 3 medium apples (peeled and diced small) (I used honey crisp; about 2 to 2 ½ cups total)
• powdered sugar (for dusting)
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar

How to Make Easy Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray a 7-inch springform pan with baking spray and line it with parchment paper. If using a larger pan, be aware that the cake will be thinner and may require careful monitoring during baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs and oil to the dry mixture. Mix until fully combined. You should achieve a smooth but thick batter.

Step 4: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are well coated with batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your lined pan. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare Topping Mixture

About five minutes before removing the cake from the oven, warm the milk, butter, and sugar in a small pot over medium heat. Whisk until everything is completely dissolved.

Step 7: Poke Holes in Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Using a long skewer or chopstick, poke about 25 to 30 holes into the top of the cake evenly spaced apart.

Step 8: Add Topping Mixture

Gently pour the warm milk mixture over the top of your cake so it absorbs as it cools.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

After allowing it to absorb for about ten minutes, remove from springform pan. Optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your delicious Easy Apple Cake!

How to Serve Easy Apple Cake

Serving Easy Apple Cake can be as delightful as making it. This cake is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavor and texture.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a rich texture that complements the moist cake perfectly.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm spices in the cake, creating a comforting dessert.

Drizzle of Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch and enhances the apple flavors beautifully.

Fresh Fruit Salad

• A side of fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake, making it a balanced treat.

Coffee or Tea

• Pairing a slice with freshly brewed coffee or tea makes for an excellent afternoon snack or dessert option.

Nuts or Granola Topping

• Sprinkling some chopped nuts or granola on top adds crunch and additional flavor, making each bite delightful.

How to Perfect Easy Apple Cake

Perfecting your Easy Apple Cake can elevate this simple recipe into a showstopper. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results:

• Choose Fresh Apples: Use sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best flavor.

• Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture in your batter.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the apples to avoid toughening the cake; a few lumps in the batter are okay.

• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked!

• Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool completely helps it set properly, ensuring a custard-like texture inside.

• Dust Before Serving: A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Apple Cake

When serving Easy Apple Cake, consider these side dishes that complement its flavors and make it even more enjoyable.

1. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: A simple toast topped with cinnamon sugar can bring out the spice notes in the cake.
2. Greek Yogurt with Honey: This tangy yogurt paired with honey adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
3. Roasted Nuts Mix: A mix of roasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans offers a crunchy contrast to the soft cake.
4. Chai Spiced Rice Pudding: This creamy dessert infused with chai spices complements apple flavors beautifully.
5. Savory Cheese Platter: Pairing slices with sharp cheddar or brie creates an interesting sweet-savory balance.
6. Hot Caramelized Bananas: Sautéed bananas in butter and brown sugar add a decadent side that works wonderfully with apples.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Apple Cake, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using expired baking powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh. An expired one won’t help your cake rise properly, resulting in a dense texture.

• Not preparing the pan correctly: Always spray your pan and line it with parchment paper. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures a clean release after baking.

• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake texture, which isn’t what you want for this easy dessert.

• Skipping the poking step: Poking holes in the cake before adding the milk mixture is crucial. It allows the cake to absorb all those tasty flavors, enhancing its moistness.

• Neglecting to cool before serving: Letting your cake cool for at least 10-15 minutes allows it to set properly. Cutting too soon can make it fall apart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Apple Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Easy Apple Cake

• Wrap slices of Easy Apple Cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Easy Apple Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat for 20 seconds at a time until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid. Heat gently for about 5 minutes or until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Easy Apple Cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What type of apples work best for Easy Apple Cake?

Honeycrisp apples are fantastic because they provide sweetness and maintain their shape during baking. Other good options include Granny Smith or Fuji apples.

How can I customize my Easy Apple Cake?

Feel free to add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or mix in raisins or cinnamon for added flavor. You could also use different fruits if you like!

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you use a larger pan and adjust your baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on it as it bakes!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Apple Cake is not only simple but incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. With its delightful flavors and moist texture, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to try different variations or add your favorite ingredients—this recipe encourages creativity! Enjoy every bite!