Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

This fresh apple cake is a delightful treat that balances moist, tender cake with the natural sweetness of grated apples. Topped with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion where a comforting dessert is needed.

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts if using.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
6. Step 6: For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
7. Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, peel the apples before grating, and consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples for deeper flavor.
• Walnuts add a nice crunch, but you can substitute pecans or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
• If you prefer, sprinkle a little ground nutmeg or allspice with the cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.

Storage

Store the apple cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Before serving, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months, then thaw and frost just before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use apple sauce instead of grated apples?

Using apple sauce will change the texture and moisture content, making the cake denser and wetter. Grated apples add both moisture and texture, so it’s best to stick with fresh grated apples for this recipe.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 113 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring grated apples and a hint of cinnamon, topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat, this classic cake combines the sweetness of fresh apples with a rich, creamy frosting that melts in your mouth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake

• 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

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined to distribute the leavening and spices.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the cake batter.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake. Fold in the grated apples and optional chopped walnuts to add moisture and texture.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
7. Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
8. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice into portions and serve.

Notes

• Grate apples using a coarse grater for best texture.
• Walnuts are optional; you can omit them or substitute with pecans for variation.
• Make sure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
• For extra moisture, peel the apples before grating if desired.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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