Fresh Apple Cake Recipe: A Slice of Autumn Delight
As the leaves start to turn and a crisp breeze fills the air, it’s time to savor the flavors of autumn. Fresh Apple Cake is a delightful way to embrace the season’s harvest. This moist and aromatic cake is packed with chunks of fresh apples, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to celebrate the fall or a treat to enjoy year-round, this recipe will take you on a journey through the comforting tastes of autumn. Let’s explore how to create this delectable Fresh Apple Cake.
Ingredients:
For the Fresh Apple Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Fresh Apple Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the peeled, cored, and diced apples, as well as the chopped walnuts and raisins, if using.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: 10. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
Frost and Serve: 13. Allow the Fresh Apple Cake to cool in the baking pan for about 15 minutes.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Slice and serve your delicious slice of autumn delight.
Cook’s Notes:
- You can use a mix of sweet and tart apples for added complexity in flavor. Experiment with varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.
- The addition of walnuts and raisins is optional and can be adjusted to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Store any leftover Fresh Apple Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s just as delightful when enjoyed as a chilled treat.
- Consider a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce over the cream cheese frosting for a beautiful and flavorful garnish.
Fresh Apple Cake is a cozy and inviting dessert that captures the essence of autumn. With its tender crumb, fresh apple chunks, and aromatic spices, this cake is a delightful way to celebrate the season’s bounty. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or indulging in a quiet moment of delight, each bite offers the warmth and comfort of autumn. Enjoy your slice of autumn delight!
