Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or a 9-inch round/square cake pan.
- Peel and chop the apples into small pieces, about 1/2 inch cubes. Toss them with 2 teaspoons of flour and set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together for 2-3 minutes until they become light and fluffy. Then, stir in the oil (or melted butter) and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and optional cinnamon, along with a pinch of salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Carefully fold the chopped apples into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes for a loaf pan, or 35-40 minutes for a round pan. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Once done, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning onto a wire rack. If you’d like, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This apple cake is a versatile delight! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or pair it with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for that extra touch of indulgence.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your apple cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge, and reheat in the oven or microwave for a delightful treat again.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your apples are not too mushy; crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well in this recipe.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Use gentle folding motions to keep it light and fluffy.
- Feel free to add nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.
Creative twists
Want to switch things up? Try adding different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile. You can also replace half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, or mix in some orange zest for a bright citrus flavor.
Your questions answered
How long does this recipe take?
The total prep and baking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including cooling time.
Can I use different fruits?
Absolutely! Pears or peaches can be great substitutes. Just ensure they have a similar texture.
How can I make it gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Try out this apple cake recipe and savor the delightful flavors it brings. It’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!
