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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
