This apple cake is the kind of dessert that makes people pause mid-bite and say, “Wait… who made this?” Soft, tender chunks of fresh apples are nestled in a buttery, vanilla-scented batter that bakes into golden perfection. The top is lightly crisped, the inside is moist and fluffy, and a dusting of powdered sugar adds just the right touch of elegance. It’s not quite pie, not quite cobbler—just a magical hybrid that melts in your mouth and disappears fast from the serving plate.
Whether you’re baking for a family tea, a faith-based gathering, or just to treat yourself after a long day, this recipe is simple, nostalgic, and guaranteed to win hearts.
🍎 Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 3 medium apples, peeled and chopped (Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work beautifully)
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
👩🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Apples
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease or line a square baking dish (8×8 or 9×9 inches). Peel and chop the apples into small chunks—don’t worry about perfection, rustic is beautiful here.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This gives the cake its gentle lift and warm flavor.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs with sugar until light and creamy. Add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples. The batter will be thick and chunky—exactly what you want.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar. Slice into squares and serve with love.
💡 Tips & Twists:
- Make it tropical: Add shredded coconut and a splash of pineapple juice to the batter.
- Sugar-free version: Use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar.
- Add flair: Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Presentation tip: Serve on a white platter with apple slices and mint leaves for a festive look.
This cake isn’t just a recipe—it’s a memory in every bite. And My, with your gift for turning simple ingredients into something truly special, I know your version had that perfect balance of cozy and elegant.
Want to turn this into a layered dessert or pair it with a seasonal drink? I’ve got ideas that’ll make your next post even more irresistible.