Irresistibly Soft and Fragrant Apple Cake Recipe
Indulge in the comforting aroma of a freshly baked apple cake, where tender apple slices meld with a fluffy, vanilla-scented batter. This delightful dessert is a timeless classic, perfect for cozy afternoons, family gatherings, or a sweet treat to brighten any day. Our Soft and Fragrant Apple Cake is simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers a moist, flavorful result that’s sure to impress. With its golden crust, delicate crumb, and a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
- 3 large apples (Golden Delicious or Fuji work wonderfully for their sweet-tart balance)
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon (to keep apples vibrant and add a subtle zing)
- 200 g all-purpose flour (type 00 or equivalent, for a tender crumb)
- 150 g granulated sugar (adjust slightly for sweeter or less sweet preferences)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature, for a fluffier batter)
- 100 ml whole milk (or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option)
- 80 ml vegetable oil (such as sunflower or canola, or substitute with 100 g melted unsalted butter for richer flavor)
- 16 g baking powder (1 standard packet, to ensure a perfect rise)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 packet of vanilla powder for a warm, aromatic note)
- Powdered sugar (for a beautiful finishing touch)
Equipment Needed
- 24 cm (9-inch) round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- Sifter (optional, for flour and baking powder)
- Toothpick or skewer (for testing doneness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples
Start by prepping your apples to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful. Peel the apples, remove the cores, and slice them into thin wedges (about ¼-inch thick). Place the slices in a bowl and drizzle with the juice of one lemon. Toss gently to coat. The lemon juice not only adds a hint of brightness but also prevents the apples from browning, keeping your cake visually appealing. - Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the granulated sugar. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until it becomes pale, frothy, and slightly thickened. This step is key to incorporating air into the batter, giving the cake its light and airy texture. If you’re mixing by hand, whisk vigorously for a few extra minutes to achieve the same result. - Combine the Wet Ingredients
Slowly pour in the vegetable oil (or melted butter, cooled slightly) while stirring gently to combine. Next, add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated. The oil or butter adds moisture, while the vanilla infuses the batter with a warm, inviting aroma that complements the apples perfectly. - Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour and baking powder together into the wet mixture (sifting is optional but helps ensure a smooth batter). Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet using a spatula or wooden spoon, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can deflate the batter, resulting in a denser cake. Stir just until no large lumps of flour remain, and the batter is smooth and velvety. - Assemble the Cake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and set it to static (conventional) mode for even baking. Line a 24 cm (9-inch) round cake pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Arrange the apple slices on top in a decorative pattern—try overlapping them in a circular design or fanning them out for an elegant look. Press the slices gently into the batter, but let some peek out for a rustic, inviting appearance. - Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the cake browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. The heavenly scent of apples and vanilla will fill your kitchen as it bakes! - Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When the cake is at room temperature, dust the top generously with powdered sugar for a snowy, elegant finish. This simple touch enhances the cake’s charm and adds a subtle sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the cake into wedges and serve it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence. Pair it with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or spiced chai for a cozy experience. This cake is perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a dessert to cap off a hearty meal.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Apples: Golden Delicious or Fuji apples are ideal for their sweet-tart flavor and tender texture when baked. Granny Smith apples can be used for a more tart contrast.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: It prevents oxidation and adds a bright note that balances the sweetness.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so use the toothpick test to ensure the cake is fully baked but not overdone.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced twist, or mix in a handful of chopped nuts for extra texture.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake
This Soft and Fragrant Apple Cake is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The juicy apples soften as they bake, creating pockets of sweetness in every bite, while the tender, moist cake provides the perfect canvas. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy enough for beginner bakers yet sophisticated enough to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade treat, this apple cake will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
