Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
This Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. Packed with grated apples and a hint of cinnamon, it’s topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds the perfect creamy touch.
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
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts if using.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Step 6: For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well blended.
- Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve to enjoy this delightful treat.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, use tart apples like Granny Smith, and make sure to grate them finely to blend well into the batter.
- Walnuts add a nice crunch, but pecans or skipping nuts altogether are great alternatives if preferred.
- If you want a spicier cake, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger along with the cinnamon.
- To keep the frosting smooth, make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing.
Storage
Store the apple cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat slices lightly at room temperature if desired, but frosting is best served chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use apple sauce instead of grated apples?
Using apple sauce will change the texture and moisture level of the cake, potentially making it denser. Grated apples provide a nice texture and freshness, so it’s best to stick with them for this recipe.
How do I tell when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent sinking.
PrintFresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
A moist and flavorful Fresh Apple Cake featuring grated apples and warm cinnamon, topped with a dreamy and smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for autumn gatherings or any time you crave a comforting homemade dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cake
- 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)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan ensuring the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake. Fold in the grated apples and optional chopped walnuts to add moisture and texture.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into squares and serve for a deliciously rich and moist dessert.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and a slight tang.
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Chilling the frosting briefly before spreading can help achieve a neater finish.
- Walnuts are optional but add a lovely crunch; you can substitute with pecans or omit for a nut-free version.
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Keywords: fresh apple cake, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon cake, apple dessert, homemade cake recipe, moist apple cake, fall dessert
