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The Best Moist Cinnamon Apple Cake

A close-up of a moist slice of apple cake, featuring visible chunks of apple and a cinnamon crumble topping.

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Make this moist apple cake packed with fresh apple chunks and warm cinnamon spice. This recipe delivers classic comfort flavor and a tender texture, perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups peeled, cored, and chopped fresh apples (about 3 medium apples)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in the chopped fresh apples and pecans, if using.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
  8. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. If desired, top with a simple powdered sugar glaze or a warm caramel sauce before serving.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
  • To make this an Apple Dapple Cake, press half of the apple pieces into the batter before baking.
  • If you want a quick option, you can substitute the dry ingredients with one box of yellow cake mix, omitting the baking soda and spices, and mix with the wet ingredients, apples, and 1/2 cup of water.

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