Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of a freshly baked cake filling your kitchen, especially when it’s this irresistible fresh apple cake with dreamy cream cheese frosting. The scent of warm apples and cinnamon wafting through the air wraps around you like a cozy hug, instantly making you feel right at home. This delightful dessert is perfect for those crisp autumn evenings when all you want to do is gather around the table with loved ones and indulge in something truly special.

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How to Make This Apple Cake

Let’s gather ’round the kitchen and make some magic happen! Preheat your oven and get your ingredients ready—it’s time to create something that will fill your heart and home with warmth. Start by greasing and flouring your favorite 9×13-inch baking pan so that your cake doesn’t stick. As the oven warms up, you’ll whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s that delightful scent of spices that signals cozy times ahead.

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Oh, don’t you just love that creamy texture? Once it’s looking dreamy, add the eggs one at a time while stirring in the vanilla extract, because who can resist that little touch of sweetness? Now it’s time to gently mix in the dry ingredients, being sure not to overmix—you want a lovely, tender crumb.

Now comes the star of the show: those freshly grated apples! Fold them into your batter with care, and add in walnuts if you’re feeling adventurous. Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. As it bakes, let the delicious aromas fill your home—your family won’t be able to resist the call of this mouthwatering cake.

Once it’s baked, let the cake cool completely. As you wait, prepare the dreamy cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and luscious. Gradually add powdered sugar and a hint more vanilla, until it’s all blended into a creamy, rich frosting that will take your cake to the next level. Spread it lovingly over the cooled cake, cut it into delightful slices, and serve this comforting slice of heaven to your waiting diners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well mixed.
3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing in the vanilla extract after each egg.
5. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts, if you’re using them, for added texture.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
10. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy.
11. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake, cut into slices, and serve.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 320
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

Packed with apples and a touch of cinnamon, this cake is not only a treat but also offers fiber to keep you feeling satisfied without that heavy feeling afterward.

Serving Ideas

This irresistible fresh apple cake is perfect for a family dinner dessert or a cozy afternoon treat at your next brunch gathering. Serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold apple cider to enhance those lovely apple flavors. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side—now that’s a slice of comfort worth savoring!

Storage Tips

To keep your cake fresh, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to make it ahead of time, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw the slices in the fridge overnight.

Pro Tips

• For an extra moisture boost, add a tablespoon of apple sauce to the batter.
• Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or maple, for a scented twist in the frosting.
• Don’t skimp on the vanilla in the frosting—it makes the whole cake sing!
• For a crunchier texture, toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter.
• Sprinkle a little bit of sea salt on top of the frosting for a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a touch of nutmeg with the cinnamon for a deeper, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Consider replacing some of the grated apples with grated carrots for a unexpected carrot-apple twist.
• For a citrusy zing, fold in some orange zest into the batter or frosting.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits in my apple cake? You sure can! Pears or even grated zucchini work wonderfully for a moist, delicious cake.

What should I do if my cake is too dry? If your cake turns out a bit on the dry side, a drizzle of simple syrup or a scoop of ice cream can bring it back to life.

How do I add more flavor to the frosting? Adding a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon can elevate your cream cheese frosting to a new level.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-for-1 gluten-free blend, and you’re good to go.