Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – A Delight for Any Occasion
Table of Contents
Short introduction
Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the moistness of fresh apples with a rich, creamy frosting. This cake is perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply as a comforting treat at home. The combination of sweet apples and spiced flavors makes it a favorite among family and friends.
Why you’ll love it
There are several reasons to love this Apple Cake. First, it is incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any special baking skills. Secondly, it’s packed with flavor and moisture from the apples, making it a delicious option for cake lovers. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the cake’s flavors. Plus, it makes a great dessert for all seasons, especially in the fall when apples are in peak season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Substitutions & key variations
If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand, you can substitute them:
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly.
- Sugar: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you want to reduce sugar content.
- Apples: Any sweet apple variety works. If you prefer a tart flavor, use Granny Smith apples.
- Nuts: If you have nut allergies, simply leave out the walnuts or pecans, or substitute with sunflower seeds for a crunch.
Key Variations
- Spices: Feel free to add additional spices like ground cloves or ginger for extra warmth.
- Fruits: You can mix in other fruits like diced pears or even cranberries for added flavor.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9 by 13 inch baking pan, or prepare two 9-inch round pans if you prefer a layered cake.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring carefully just until combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cake tough.
Step 5: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apples, and if you choose, add the chopped walnuts or pecans. The batter will be quite thick.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
Let the cake cool completely in the pan. While it cools, make the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and the rest of the vanilla until fluffy.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice the cake and enjoy!
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the best results, especially the eggs and cream cheese.
- Texture: If your batter seems too thick, it’s fine to add a splash of milk to loosen it up slightly.
- Common mistakes: Avoid over-mixing the batter once you combine wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake. Remember to check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
How to serve
This Apple Cake is best served at room temperature. Slice it into squares or wedges, and for an extra special touch, serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also makes a wonderful breakfast treat!
Storage & reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices for up to three months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds for a quick warm-up, but if you can, enjoy it cold as well!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes, different varieties of apples can be used. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work best, but feel free to experiment!
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just frost it right before serving.
Q: How can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum or add a bit to help with the structure.
Q: Is it necessary to use nuts?
A: No, the nuts are optional. The cake tastes delicious on its own without them!
Q: Can I add frosting on the sides of the cake?
A: Yes, if you’ve baked the cake in round pans, you can frost the sides as well for a more decorated look.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This Apple Cake is not only delicious but also offers the benefits of apples, which provide dietary fiber and essential vitamins. Each slice can be a satisfying treat within your balanced diet.
Conclusion
Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a simple yet delectable dessert that brings joy to any gathering. Its delightful flavors and moist texture will leave your friends and family asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home; you’ll be glad you did!
Links to related recipes
- Spiced Pumpkin Cake
- Classic Carrot Cake
- Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
Cream Cheese Apple Cake Recipe
Apple Cake With Cream Sauce
Thanksgiving Apple Cake
Apple Cake With Cream Cheese
Apple Pecan Cake With Cream Cheese Icing
Apple Cake Cream Cheese Frosting
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Cake For Thanksgiving
Apple Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9 by 13 inch baking pan, or prepare two 9-inch round pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring carefully just until combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples and add the chopped walnuts or pecans if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan. While it cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and the rest of the vanilla until fluffy.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Slice the cake and enjoy!