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Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 11 reviews

This irresistible fresh apple cake features tender, moist layers bursting with grated apples and warm cinnamon, topped with a smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a cozy dessert or festive gatherings, this cake combines classic flavors with a delightful nutty crunch from optional walnuts.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake 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)

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake does not stick and bakes evenly.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices throughout the batter.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this step is crucial for a tender crumb.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain emulsion. Then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so fold carefully.
  6. Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Gently fold in the grated apples and optional chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly without deflating the batter.
  7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let the cake cool completely.
  8. Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
  9. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice the cake and serve fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a sharper flavor or sweeter apples like Fuji for a milder taste.
  • Ensure apples are well grated and drained if very juicy to avoid soggy cake.
  • The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • To soften cream cheese and butter quickly, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon cake, fall dessert, moist apple cake, homemade cake

Find it online: https://tastybella.com/irresistible-fresh-apple-cake-with-cream-cheese-frosting-recipe/