Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square pan or 9-inch round cake pan.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Add eggs, oil (or butter), milk, and vanilla. Stir until just combined.
Step 3: Add Apples
Fold in chopped apples (and nuts, if using) until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Optional Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter with a fork until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter.
Step 5: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let cool at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or à la mode with ice cream.
Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cake
- Use firm apples – Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up best.
- Don’t overmix – keeps the cake tender, not dense.
- Toss apples with lemon juice – prevents browning and brightens flavor.
- Make ahead – Cake stays moist for 2–3 days covered at room temp.
- Freeze slices – Wrap individually, freeze up to 3 months, reheat when needed.
Variations to Try
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan: Substitute flax eggs, plant-based milk, and coconut oil.
- Apple Spice Cake: Add nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
- Drizzle Finish: Top with caramel or cream cheese glaze.
- Apple Cake Muffins: Divide into muffin liners, bake 20–25 minutes.
FAQ
Q: Can I use canned apples?
Yes, but drain and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase bake time by 5–10 minutes.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, bake and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate/freeze for longer storage.
Q: Is it kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love helping mix and snack on apple chunks while baking.
