Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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