1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
3️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Make the Batter
4️⃣ In another large bowl, cream together butter (or oil) and sugar until fluffy.
5️⃣ Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
6️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk (or yogurt), until just combined.
4. Add Apples & Bake
7️⃣ Fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using).
8️⃣ Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
9️⃣ Sprinkle the brown sugar & cinnamon mixture over the batter for extra sweetness.
🔟 Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Serve
1️⃣1️⃣ Let cool for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan.
1️⃣2️⃣ Serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel drizzle!
Storage & Reheating
- Store at room temperature for 2 days, or in the fridge for 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months—thaw at room temp before serving.
- Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste!
Variations & Customizations
🔥 Spiced Apple Cake – Add ¼ tsp nutmeg or ginger for a warm kick.
🍎 Apple Chunk Lovers – Use extra apple pieces for a juicy texture.
🍯 Healthier Version – Swap sugar for honey or maple syrup.
🥥 Coconut Apple Cake – Add shredded coconut to the batter.
FAQ
❓ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
✔ Yes, but use 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour + ½ cup all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
❓ What’s the best apple variety for this cake?
✔ Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples work best.
❓ Can I make this cake without eggs?
✔ Yes! Substitute with ½ cup unsweetened applesauce or 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed + 6 tbsp water).
