This Golden Apple Cake is the ultimate cozy dessert, blending tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a fluffy, buttery cake. It’s easy to make, bursting with fall flavors, and perfect for everything from weeknight treats to festive gatherings. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this cake is as simple as it is delicious, and it pairs beautifully with ice cream, caramel, or a warm cup of tea.

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 8–10

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and chopped into small cubes)
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Topping:

• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for extra warmth)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, bite-sized cubes. Toss with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to enhance their flavor and set aside.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until evenly combined.
4. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the melted butter and milk until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender.
6. Add the Apples: Gently fold the cinnamon-coated apples into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the dish for 15 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce, if desired, before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat.
• Elegant: Drizzle with caramel sauce or a glaze for a sophisticated touch.
• Simple: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Festive: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a holiday vibe.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for 5–6 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Apple Choice: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of tart and sweet.
• Add Texture: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for extra warmth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the batter (without apples) a day ahead and refrigerate. Fold in apples just before baking.

This Golden Apple Cake is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Share your baking adventures with us using #GoldenAppleCake and let us know if you added nuts, caramel, or your own special twist! Happy baking!

Categories: Dessert, Baking, Fall Recipes, Apple Desserts, Easy Recipes