Fresh 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
Scale
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
