Apple Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Made Easy

Originally posted on April 17, 2023 @ 5:14 pm

There’s something truly comforting about the warm, spiced aroma of freshly baked apple cake filling your kitchen. This apple cake with cream cheese frosting recipe brings together tender, moist cake layers bursting with fresh apple pieces and a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the sweetness of the fruit.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or just treating yourself to a delightful dessert, this cake is sure to become a favorite.

Its combination of soft textures and rich flavors makes it an ideal dessert any time of the year, especially in the fall when apples are at their peak. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.

Dive into this recipe, and enjoy the bliss of homemade apple cake with a frosting that’s smooth, creamy, and utterly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple cake recipe stands out because it perfectly balances moistness, spice, and sweetness. The use of fresh apples adds natural moisture and a subtle tartness, while the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort.

The cream cheese frosting adds a velvety texture and a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

It’s also versatile—perfect for afternoon tea, a special occasion, or even a weekend bake to impress family and friends. The ingredients are simple, and the method straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 2 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1-2 tbsp milk or heavy cream to adjust consistency

Equipment

• 9-inch square or round cake pan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Knife and cutting board (for apples)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined – be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the apples: Using a spatula, gently fold the diced apples into the batter, evenly distributing them.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan: Spread the batter evenly with the spatula.
8. Bake: Put the pan in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool fully before frosting.
10. Make the cream cheese frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. If needed, add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
11. Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or knife.
12. Serve and enjoy! Slice the cake and savor every bite of this moist, flavorful treat.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well and add a nice tart contrast to the sweet cake.”

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
• Nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend.
• Frosting Variation: For a lighter option, try whipped coconut cream frosting in place of cream cheese.
• Layer Cake: Double the recipe and bake in two pans to create a layered apple cake with frosting between layers.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This apple cake with cream cheese frosting is delicious served on its own with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent experience, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

It also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit on the side, such as sliced pears or berries, which add a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few chopped toasted nuts on top of the frosting just before serving.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this apple cake with cream cheese frosting recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fresh apples and cozy spices. The moist, tender crumb combined with the creamy, tangy frosting creates a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a weekend treat, this cake is sure to bring smiles to the table. Don’t forget to check out other great recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for more culinary inspiration.

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