Apple Cake: 15 Min Prep Moist Delicious

Name: Apple Cake: 15 Min Prep Moist Delicious
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 2 cups chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)

by Manar Jota

September 28, 2025

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Apple cake has been my go-to dessert for as long as I can remember. There’s something magical about the warm, comforting aroma that fills my kitchen when it’s baking – it instantly makes any day feel cozier. My grandmother used to make a similar version, and the scent always reminded me of crisp autumn afternoons. This particular easy apple cake recipe is one I’ve perfected over years of baking, and it’s so straightforward, I even call it my simple apple cake for beginners. It’s incredibly moist, packed with tender chunks of apple, and has just the right hint of spice. It’s seriously a slice of pure comfort. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake

I’ve tried countless apple desserts, but this one truly stands out. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spiced, with tender apples in every bite. You’ll adore how quickly it comes together too!

Incredible taste: Bursting with fresh apple flavor and a hint of warm cinnamon.
Super speedy prep: Ready to bake in just 15 minutes!
Family approved: Kids and adults alike adore this classic dessert.
Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples, making it an economical treat.
Perfectly moist: This moist apple cake recipe guarantees a tender crumb.
Beginner-friendly: An easy apple cake recipe that even novice bakers can master.
Versatile: Delicious served warm or at room temperature.
A truly moist apple cake recipe that never disappoints, avoiding that dry texture some cakes get.

Ingredients for Your Apple Cake

Gather these simple ingredients for a wonderfully spiced treat. This recipe is perfect for an everyday apple cinnamon cake recipe!

1 cup all-purpose flour – the base for our tender cake
1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cake rise beautifully
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – essential for that warm, cozy flavor
1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors
1 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness and moisture
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – adds richness and a tender crumb
2 large eggs – bind everything together and add structure
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for that classic comforting aroma
1/2 cup milk – contributes to the moisture and smooth texture
2 cups chopped apples (about 2 medium apples) – the star of the show! I like using Honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweetness and texture.

How to Make the Best Apple Cake From Scratch

Let’s get started on this simple recipe! Learning how to make apple cake is easier than you think, and the results are incredibly rewarding.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, generously grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This ensures your beautiful cake releases easily later.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This dry mixture forms the base of our cake. Make sure there are no lumps!
Step 3: In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened. Beat them with an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This step is crucial for a tender crumb.
Step 4: Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. The aroma is already starting to smell wonderful!
Step 5: Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the 1/2 cup milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed or by hand until just combined; be careful not to overmix at this stage.
Step 6: Gently fold in the 2 cups chopped apples. I like to use a spatula for this, ensuring all those delicious apple pieces are evenly distributed throughout the batter. You’ll see them peeking through the batter, promising a moist cake to come.
Step 7: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure the surface is relatively smooth. This helps the cake bake evenly.
Step 8: Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and smell absolutely divine.
Step 9: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto the wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents the bottom from getting soggy. Enjoying how to make apple cake from scratch is so satisfying!

Apple Cake: 15 Min Prep Moist Delicious - Apple Cake - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Cake

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this simple dessert. Follow these tips for a truly fantastic apple cake experience!

Use a mix of apple varieties for complex flavor and texture. I love combining a tart apple like Granny Smith with a sweeter one like Fuji.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour. A light hand ensures a tender crumb, not a tough one.
Cool the cake completely before slicing. This allows the internal structure to set, preventing crumbly pieces.

What’s the secret to a perfectly moist apple cake?

The key is using the right amount of fat (butter and milk) and not overbaking. This recipe is designed to prevent that dreaded “why is my apple cake dry” problem by keeping the batter rich and the bake time precise. For more baking science insights, you can explore resources on baking ingredient functions.

Can I make this apple cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake this delicious apple cake up to a day in advance. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It stays wonderfully fresh and moist. For more make-ahead dessert ideas, check out these recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes when baking an apple cake?

A couple of common pitfalls include overmixing the batter, which leads to a tough cake, and overbaking, which results in a dry texture. Always measure your flour correctly and watch for that clean skewer test!

Best Ways to Serve Your Apple Cake

This versatile dessert is wonderful on its own, but I love dressing it up a bit! For a truly decadent experience, serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of warm cake and cold cream is divine. If you’re craving something a bit more rustic, dusted powdered sugar works beautifully. For an extra layer of texture and flavor reminiscent of an apple crumb cake recipe, try topping it with a simple streusel made from flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon before baking, or sprinkle toasted chopped walnuts over the top after it cools. It’s amazing how many delicious ways there are to enjoy this homemade apple cake!

Apple Cake: 15 Min Prep Moist Delicious - Apple Cake - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for This Delicious Apple Cake

A slice of this delightful cake is a perfect treat any time of day. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more information on general nutrition, you can consult resources like the National Nutrition Portal.

How to Store and Reheat Your Apple Cake

Once your delicious apple cake has cooled, proper storage is key to enjoying its wonderful flavor for days. For the best results, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents any steam from getting trapped, which can make the cake soggy. Once cooled, transfer your cake to an airtight container. This simple step is one of my favorite homemade apple cake ideas for keeping it fresh.

Stored this way, your cake will stay lovely and moist in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and it can stay frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or bake them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This ensures you can savor your homemade apple cake anytime! If you’re looking for other delicious baked goods, consider trying this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cake

What is a good apple cake recipe for beginners?

This recipe is absolutely perfect for beginners! It’s designed to be straightforward and forgiving. Learning how to make apple cake doesn’t get much simpler than this. The ingredients are common, the steps are clear, and the result is consistently delicious. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a wonderful dessert. For other easy recipes, explore our recipe collection.

Why is my apple cake always dry?

A dry apple cake is usually a result of overbaking or using too little moisture. This recipe is specifically formulated to be a moist apple cake recipe, thanks to the right balance of butter, milk, and apples, plus precise baking instructions. Make sure you’re not overbaking it – pull it out as soon as a skewer comes out clean!

Can I add nuts or other fruits to this apple cake?

Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic base for customization. For an amazing apple walnut cake recipe, simply fold in about 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts along with the apples in Step 6. You could also try adding a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture. Just ensure you don’t add too many extra ingredients, as it could affect the batter’s consistency. For a different kind of bake, try our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

What makes this apple cake recipe stand out from others?

What makes this recipe truly special is its perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It delivers that comforting, homemade taste without requiring complex techniques. It’s a fantastic example of what is a good apple cake recipe because it’s reliably moist, wonderfully spiced, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Variations of Apple Cake You Can Try

This basic apple cake is a fantastic canvas for all sorts of delicious twists! If you’re looking for new ways to enjoy this classic dessert, consider these variations. For a delightful textural contrast and added nutty flavor, try making an apple walnut cake recipe by folding in about half a cup of chopped walnuts along with the apples. It’s a wonderful addition that complements the fruit beautifully.

Craving a dairy-free option? You can easily adapt this recipe to create a vegan apple cake recipe. Simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, use a plant-based milk like almond or soy, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The result is still incredibly moist and flavorful, proving that delicious apple cake doesn’t need animal products. For another delightful dish, see our Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.

Don’t have a round cake pan? No problem! This batter works beautifully as an apple crumb cake recipe in a rectangular pan, topped with a simple streusel. You could also bake it as cupcakes for individual servings, adjusting the baking time accordingly. Experiment and find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile fruit!