The Best Homemade Apple Cake Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade apple cake is perfect for cozy afternoons or sweet celebrations, bringing warmth and joy to every bite. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients you likely already have at home. Enjoy the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples as the cake bakes, filling your kitchen with deliciousness. Its moist, tender texture pairs perfectly with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, making it irresistible every time. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress family and friends without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Recipe

Indulge in the warmth of a classic homemade apple cake, perfect for any occasion. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines fresh apples with a moist cake base, creating a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped apples. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes:

– Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Equipment:

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Hand or stand mixer

Time:

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

8 slices

Nutrition

This homemade apple cake is a delicious treat that’s also packed with nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

You can’t go wrong serving this apple cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the contrast between the tender crumb and cold creaminess is pure magic. If you prefer something lighter, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds just the right touch of indulgence without overpowering the cake’s cozy flavors. For a fun twist, try drizzling caramel sauce over either option to take it to the next level.

Ice Cream Pairings

When I first tasted apple cake, I couldn’t help but wonder what could make it even better—then I tried it with ice cream. Vanilla is a classic choice, its creamy sweetness balancing the cake’s warm spices. But don’t stop there! Salted caramel ice cream adds a rich, buttery contrast that’s irresistible. For a cozy twist, cinnamon ice cream amplifies the autumn flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with caramelized pear or toasted almond ice cream—they bring a nutty depth. No matter which you pick, the combo of warm cake and cold ice cream feels like dessert magic.

Whipped Cream Options

Though ice cream’s a showstopper, whipped cream’s my go-to for apple cake—it’s light, fluffy, and lets the spices shine. I love dolloping fresh vanilla whipped cream on warm slices, but sometimes I jazz it up. A dash of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel elevates it, while a hint of bourbon adds a grown-up twist. For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream works surprisingly well. My grandma always said, “Keep it simple,” so plain sweetened cream’s perfect too. Just whip it stiff enough to hold its shape but soft enough to melt into every bite. Trust me, it’s magic.