Why Make This Recipe
Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brings the taste of autumn right to your home. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy evening at home. The combination of sweet, juicy apples and creamy frosting makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to use seasonal apples!
How to Make Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
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
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and walnuts, if you’re using them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool.
- For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until the frosting is creamy.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting over the top. Slice and serve!
How to Serve Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
You can serve this cake as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors can also become richer as it sits, making leftovers a great option for snacking.
How to Store Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you prefer, you can freeze the cake without the frosting. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving, and then add the frosting.
Tips to Make Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use freshly grated apples for the best flavor and moisture.
- If you would like a bit more texture, add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter.
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth frosting.
- If you prefer less sweetness, adjust the powdered sugar in the frosting to your taste.
Variation
For a twist on this classic recipe, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or swap out the walnuts for pecans. Also, consider using spices like ginger or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits in this cake?
Yes, you can use grated pears or even finely chopped peaches along with the apples.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! You can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just keep it covered at room temperature until you’re ready to frost and serve.
Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful apple cake with creamy frosting perfect for family gatherings and cozy evenings.
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and walnuts, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool.
- For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting over the top. Slice and serve!
Notes
Use freshly grated apples for the best flavor. Store in an airtight container; it’ll stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, autumn dessert, baking, sweet treat