Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This fresh apple cake is a delightful treat combining tender, spiced cake with juicy grated apples. Topped with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion from afternoon tea to dessert.

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 prevent sticking.
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. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Carefully fold in the grated apples and walnuts if using.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
6. Step 6: For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
7. Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve to enjoy the delicious combination of flavors.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity in your cake.
• Substitute chopped pecans for walnuts if preferred or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
• For extra moisture, sprinkle a little lemon juice over the grated apples before folding them into the batter.
• Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.

Storage

Store the apple cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When ready to eat, allow the cake to come to room temperature or warm a slice gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a soft, just-baked feel.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unpackaged apples instead of grated?

Grated apples work best as they distribute moisture evenly throughout the cake, keeping it tender and flavorful. Chopped apples can be used but may create uneven texture and pockets of moisture.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the cake’s structure.

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 144 reviews

This Fresh Apple Cake features a moist, tender crumb filled with grated apples and a hint of cinnamon, topped with a luscious and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a delightful dessert any time of year.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake 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)

Frosting Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cake texture.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
6. Incorporate Apples and Walnuts: Fold in the grated apples and optional chopped walnuts evenly throughout the batter to add moisture and crunch.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Then, allow the cake to cool completely.
8. Make the Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and easy to spread.
9. Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or knife.
10. Serve: Slice the cake into pieces and serve as a delicious dessert or snack.

Notes

• Using fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji will provide the best texture and flavor.
• Chilling the cream cheese and butter before beating helps to achieve a smooth frosting.
• If desired, walnuts can be omitted or substituted with pecans for a different nutty flavor.
• Store the frosted cake in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, easy dessert, autumn dessert, walnut apple cake, moist cake