Classic Homemade Apple Cake 🍏🍰

Nothing says comfort like a warm, fragrant apple cake straight from the oven. This easy, one-bowl recipe is packed with juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and a perfectly tender crumb. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a comforting dessert, this apple cake is a timeless classic that brings a little sweetness to any day.
What makes this cake special? It’s moist, fluffy, and loaded with fresh apples—every bite is bursting with cozy fall flavors. Plus, it comes together in just minutes with simple pantry ingredients. No fancy equipment, no complicated steps—just pure homemade goodness.
Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
✔ 2 cups all-purpose flour (for a soft, tender texture)
✔ 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (for the perfect level of sweetness)
✔ 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps the cake rise beautifully!)
✔ ½ teaspoon baking soda (for extra lightness and fluffiness)
✔ 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth and depth of flavor)
✔ ½ teaspoon salt (balances out the sweetness and enhances flavors!)
Wet Ingredients:
✔ 2 large eggs (for structure and moisture)
✔ ½ cup vegetable oil (keeps the cake ultra-moist!)
✔ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds a sweet, aromatic touch!)
Fruits & Nuts (Optional but Delicious!):
✔ 2 cups apples, peeled and chopped (choose crisp, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp!)
✔ ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional) (adds a delightful crunch!)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Cake Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan (or line it with parchment paper for easy removal).
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
✅ Flour
✅ Sugar
✅ Baking powder
✅ Baking soda
✅ Cinnamon
✅ Salt
This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly combined before adding the wet ingredients.
(Pro Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients makes the cake extra light and fluffy!)
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together:
✅ Eggs
✅ Vegetable oil
✅ Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix! (Overmixing can make the cake dense.)
- Fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (if using).
(Pro Tip: If your apples are extra juicy, toss them in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom!)
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
(Pro Tip: If you love a golden-brown crust, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the top before baking!)
Serving Suggestions
This apple cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to take it up a notch:
✔ Dusted with Powdered Sugar – A simple, elegant finishing touch.
✔ Drizzled with Caramel Sauce – Adds a decadent sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
✔ Served Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream – The ultimate cozy dessert experience.
✔ With a Dollop of Whipped Cream – Light, airy, and delicious!
✔ Paired with a Cup of Coffee or Tea – Perfect for an afternoon treat.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
✔ Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days—just bring to room temperature before serving.
✔ Freezer-Friendly: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for a quick treat!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake
✅ Easy to Make: One bowl, no fancy equipment—just mix and bake!
✅ Super Moist & Fluffy: Thanks to the perfect balance of oil, eggs, and fresh apples.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with coffee.
✅ Naturally Sweet & Spiced: Just the right touch of cinnamon and vanilla.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day!
Final Thoughts
This classic apple cake is a true family favorite—simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a weekend treat, or just because you love apples, this cake never disappoints.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apples and start baking! 🍏💕
Did you try this recipe? Let me know how it turned out—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy baking! 🎂✨