Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A delightful dessert that combines the moistness of fresh apples with a rich, creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute.
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) Any sweet apple variety works.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute.
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs Best if at room temperature.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Feel free to add more spices for extra warmth.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) Can be replaced with sunflower seeds.
For the Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Ensure it is at room temperature.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened Also best at room temperature.
- 3 cups powdered sugar Add gradually.
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
Baking
- 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.
Frosting
- 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.
Serving
- Slice the cake and enjoy!
Notes
Serve best at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Can freeze slices for up to three months.
