Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

This fresh apple cake is a delightful treat perfect for any season. Soft and moist with a touch of cinnamon, it’s topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting that makes every bite irresistible.

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 prepare it for the batter.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, 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 in the pan.
6. Step 6: For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
7. Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve to enjoy this delicious dessert.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, squeeze out excess liquid from the grated apples before folding them into the batter.
• Try adding a handful of raisins or shredded coconut for a different texture and flavor.
• Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or Fuji apples for a sweeter cake.
• If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.

Storage

Store the apple cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then add frosting before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, but check that the blend contains xanthan gum for structure.

How do I keep the cream cheese frosting from becoming too soft?

Make sure to keep the cream cheese and butter well chilled before mixing. If the frosting feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before spreading on the cake.

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 128 reviews

This Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake features a moist, tender crumb infused with grated apples and warm cinnamon, complemented perfectly by a dreamy cream cheese frosting. Ideal for dessert or afternoon tea, this cake combines simple ingredients to deliver comforting flavors in every bite.

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

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 Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking during baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which results in a tender cake texture.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. Carefully fold in the grated apples and optional chopped walnuts to distribute evenly.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. 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.
7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
8. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into portions and serve.

Notes

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and moisture.
• Optional walnuts add a pleasant crunch but can be omitted for nut allergies.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients.

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