As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisper, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked Apple Pie Cake wafting through the kitchen. This easy cake recipe combines sweet, tender apples with a sprinkle of warm spices, creating a cozy dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll be diving into this crowd-pleaser in a little over an hour. It’s an ideal choice for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a comforting slice during a cozy night at home. And did I mention how delicious it is when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? I’m confident this Apple Pie Cake will become a seasonal favorite for you too. What are your must-have flavors for fall desserts?
Why Is This Apple Pie Cake Irresistible?
Comforting Flavors: This cake is bursting with the rich taste of fall, thanks to sweet apples and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Simple Recipe: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can create a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
Versatile Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, it’s equally great as a cozy evening treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.
Unique Texture: The combination of tender cake and juicy apples makes each bite a comforting experience, reminiscent of classic apple pie.
Crowd Favorite: This Apple Pie Cake is sure to impress guests and family alike, making it an ideal addition to your dessert repertoire.
Apple Pie Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Base
• All-purpose flour – Provides the foundational structure for the cake. Substitution: Can be replaced with a gluten-free blend if necessary.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps retain moisture. Note: Essential for achieving a light texture.
• Brown sugar – Brings caramelly flavor and extra moisture due to molasses content.
• Baking powder – Acts as the leavening agent to provide lift and fluffiness.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
• Ground cinnamon – Infuses the cake with classic fall spice.
• Ground nutmeg – Adds a hint of nutty, earthy warmth, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
For the Wet Ingredients
• Unsalted butter – Contributes richness and a tender texture. Note: Allows for better control of salt levels.
• Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and adds a tender crumb.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and create a structure for the cake.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aroma.
For the Star Ingredient
• Peeled and chopped apples – The star ingredient providing sweetness and moisture. Substitution: Mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Fuji) apples is ideal for depth of flavor.
Optional Additions
• Chopped walnuts or pecans – Offer crunchy texture contrast. Note: Can be omitted for a nut-free version.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting) – Adds sweetness and a decorative touch.
This Apple Pie Cake is sure to become your favorite homemade dessert as it beautifully melds the traditional flavors of fall into a delightful cake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pie Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the Apple Pie Cake bakes evenly, resulting in a moist, tender crumb. While the oven is heating, take a 9×13 inch baking pan and generously grease and flour it. This step prevents sticking and makes for easier slicing once your cake is baked.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. This mixture sets the foundation for your Apple Pie Cake, infusing it with delightful fall spices. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and combine it with ½ cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend of fats and eggs not only binds the cake but also contributes to its rich texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir gently using a spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this could make your Apple Pie Cake tough. The batter should be slightly lumpy, indicating you’ve merged the ingredients perfectly to create a tender cake.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in 2 to 3 cups of peeled and chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you choose, incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. This step adds moisture and bursts of sweetness, characteristic of a classic Apple Pie Cake.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the surface to ensure even baking. If desired, sprinkle a few extra apple chunks on top for a beautiful finish. This step will elevate the cake’s appeal as it bakes, enticing everyone with its aroma.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye out; the cake is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This visual cue indicates that your Apple Pie Cake is perfectly baked and ready to come out.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the Apple Pie Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. This cooling period allows the cake to set and makes it easier to slice later. The tantalizing aroma of apple and spices will fill your kitchen during this wait!
Step 9: Dust and Serve
After cooling, you can dust the top of your cake with powdered sugar for a decorative touch if desired. Slice the cooled cake into squares and serve it warm. This delightful Apple Pie Cake is perfect on its own or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for an indulgent treat.
Apple Pie Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Apple Pie Cake recipe! Explore fun twists and substitutions to make it your own.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a delightful cake everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil for butter and almond milk for any dairy in the recipe, making it friendly for dairy-free diets.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts entirely or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without allergens.
- Extra Sweetness: Add a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce right before serving for a luxurious touch that elevates your cake!
- Fruit Variations: Try mixing in pears or cranberries alongside the apples for a fruity flair that surprises every bite.
- Spice Lovers: Increase the amounts of cinnamon and nutmeg or add a dash of ginger for a more intensely spiced profile.
- Apple Cider Infusion: Replace some of the wet ingredients with apple cider for a deeper apple flavor that sings of fall.
If you’re in the mood to expand your dessert repertoire even further, check out our delicious Apple Crumb Cake, or try whipping up some Apple Cider Whoopie pies for a unique twist on apple desserts. Happy baking!
Helpful Tricks for Apple Pie Cake
- Avoid Overmixing: Stop stirring as soon as the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake instead of a tender Apple Pie Cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is fully baked. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs, not wet batter.
- Choose Your Apples Wisely: A mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Fuji and Granny Smith, creates the best flavor balance in your cake.
- Cooling Time Matters: Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan. This ensures it sets properly and makes slicing easier.
- Optional Nuts for Texture: Adding walnuts or pecans can enhance the cake’s flavor and crunch, but feel free to omit them for a nut-free version.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness and flavor. Keep it covered to prevent drying out.
Fridge: For optimal freshness, you can keep the Apple Pie Cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to wrap it tightly or place it in a sealed container.
Freezer: Freeze the cake in individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. This allows for easy grab-and-go dessert options.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or warm in the microwave for a delightful treat.
What to Serve with Classic Apple Pie Cake
As your kitchen fills with the cozy aroma of spice-laden apples, consider these delightful complements to create a full, comforting meal.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness pairs perfectly with the spiced cake, creating a delightful contrast in texture that enhances each rich bite.
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Whipped Cream: A light and airy addition that balances the cake’s density, making for a delightful finishing touch on each slice.
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Caramel Drizzle: This luscious topping adds a sweet, buttery layer that elevates the overall flavor, making every bite a bit more indulgent.
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Coffee: A warm cup of your favorite brew harmonizes beautifully with the cake’s flavors, balancing the sweetness with its rich bitterness.
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Hot Apple Cider: Enhance the fall experience with a glass of spiced apple cider that mirrors the flavors in the cake and warms the soul.
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Candied Pecans: The crunchy sweetness brings an extra textural element to the experience, complementing the moist cake while adding a festive crunch.
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Cheddar Cheese Slices: A surprising but delicious pairing, the sharpness of cheddar enhances the sweet, fruity notes of the cake.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: For an autumn-inspired drink, nothing beats this caffeinated treat, blending warmth and sweetness to accompany your dessert.
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Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: A rich chocolate layer that brings a unique twist, contrasting with the apple flavors for daring dessert lovers.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Pie Cakes are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the wet and dry ingredients and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. To maintain quality, keep the batter tightly covered to prevent ingredient degradation. If you’re using chopped apples, wait to fold them in until just before baking to ensure they stay fresh and vibrant. When ready to serve, just pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the recipe instructions. You’ll have a warm, delicious Apple Pie Cake with minimal effort!
Apple Pie Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! A delightful mix of tart apples, like Granny Smith, and sweet ones, like Fuji or Honeycrisp, creates a balanced flavor profile in your Apple Pie Cake. The tartness helps cut through the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
How should I store my Apple Pie Cake?
You can store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it fresh longer, it can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just remember to wrap it tightly so it doesn’t dry out.
Can I freeze the Apple Pie Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This method allows for easy thawing; it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
What should I do if my Apple Pie Cake sinks in the middle?
No worries! If your cake sinks, it could be due to overmixing or not enough leavening agent. Make sure to mix gently when combining wet and dry ingredients and check your baking powder’s freshness before using it—an old baking powder may not provide the lift you need.
Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes! This Apple Pie Cake can easily be made nut-free. Simply skip adding the optional walnuts or pecans, and you’ll have a safe dessert for those with nut allergies.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour in this recipe?
Indeed! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure proper texture and structure in your Apple Pie Cake.
Cozy Apple Pie Cake That Will Warm Your Soul This Fall
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and mix with ½ cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in 2 to 3 cups of peeled and chopped apples, and optionally, ½ cup of chopped nuts.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes on a wire rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or caramel.
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