Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

This fresh apple cake combines tender, moist cake with the natural sweetness of grated apples, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a comforting flavor that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated apples
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts if using.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
6. Step 6: For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and spreadable.
7. Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve for a delightful dessert.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and slight tang in the cake.
• Swap walnuts for pecans or leave nuts out entirely for a nut-free version.
• To enhance moisture, soak the grated apples in a tablespoon of lemon juice before adding to the batter.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon.

Storage

Store the apple cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To serve after freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let come to room temperature before slicing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use apple sauce instead of grated apples?

While grated apples provide texture and moisture, you can substitute with 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce. The cake may be denser and less textured but still delicious.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid opening the oven early to prevent sinking.

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 100 reviews

This Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake features tender, moist layers bursting with fresh grated apples and warm cinnamon spice, perfectly balanced by a dreamy, smooth cream cheese frosting. Ideal for cozy gatherings or an elegant dessert, this cake combines classic flavors and textures that delight every bite.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated apples
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined, creating a flavorful dry base.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color, which helps create a tender crumb.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain cake tenderness.
6. Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Carefully fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts (if using) to the batter, distributing them evenly without deflating the mixture.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
8. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy.
9. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or knife. Slice and serve to enjoy this delicious, moist apple cake.

Notes

• Ensure the apples are well-drained if very juicy to avoid a soggy cake texture.
• Walnuts are optional but add a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor.
• The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the frosting fresh.
• For a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the dry ingredients.
• To make this gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, fresh apple dessert, cinnamon cake, easy cake recipe, moist apple cake