Apple Cake Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 50

Total Time 2

Indulge, in the flavors of autumn with this Apple Cake Recipe, a perfect combination of tastes and textures. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist and tender crumb that's wonderfully spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of ginger—all blending harmoniously with the sweetness of juicy apples. As you savor each bite you'll discover chunks of apple scattered throughout the interior creating a delightful surprise. To top it all off? A delectable brown sugar glaze that gracefully envelops the cake like a sweet hug. This recipe isn't, about dessert; it's an opportunity to celebrate comfort and togetherness—an invitation to gather and share in the simple pleasures of a homemade treat crafted with love and warmth.

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Servings

Ingredients

Cake:

2 and 1/2 c 313 grams all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
2 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp EACH ground ginger & allspice
1 c 240ml vegetable oil
1 c 200 grams granulated sugar
1/2 c 100 grams packed light or dark brown sugar
1 c 180 grams unsweetened applesauce
4 large eggs at room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 tbsp. 30ml orange juice
3 c 360 grams peeled chopped apples (1/2-inch chunks, about 2–3 large apples)

Optional: Brown Sugar Glaze:

1/4 c 4 tbsp.; 56 grams unsalted butter
1 c 200 grams packed light or dark brown sugar
1/2 c 120ml heavy cream
small pinch of salt
1/2 c 60 grams confectioner’s sugar, sifted

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a baking pan measuring 9x13 inches.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl mix together 2 and 1/2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 3/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ginger and 1/4 teaspoon of allspice.
Whisk Together Wet Ingredients: In a bowl whisk together 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 cup of applesauce four eggs, one teaspoon vanilla extract and two tablespoons orange juice.
Pour the ingredients into the mixture and mix until just combined. Then gently fold in three cups of chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the pan. Bake, for approximately 45–50 minutes. After around thirty minutes have passed during baking time cover loosely with foil to prevent browning. To check if it's done insert a toothpick in the center which should come out clean.
Leave it to cool in the pan for thirty minutes.
Prepare Glaze (Optional): In a saucepan melt together one-fourth cup butter along, with one cup sugar. Add half a cup cream and a pinch of salt. Bring it to boil then let it simmer for one minute.
Take the mixture off the heat. Stir in half a cup of confectioner's sugar that has been sifted. Allow it to cool for 20 minutes before drizzling it over the cake.
You can savor the cake while it's still warm or let it come to room temperature. You have options to enjoy it as is, sprinkle some confectioner's sugar on top or add the glaze if you prefer.

Notes

For those who adore the comforting flavors of our Apple Cake but need or prefer a gluten-free option, fear not! Transforming this recipe into a gluten-free delight is wonderfully simple and equally delicious. The key swap is the flour: instead of regular all-purpose flour, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for one that's designed to be a direct substitute – these often contain a mix of rice flour, tapioca flour, and a binder like xanthan gum, ensuring your cake still rises beautifully and retains that tender, moist crumb we all love.

Remember, gluten-free baking is an art of balance. Each gluten-free flour blend behaves a bit differently, so the first attempt is your canvas to discover what works best for you. And don't forget to check that your baking powder, baking soda, and other additives are gluten-free too.

Audrey