The Best Easy Apple Cake Recipe for Cozy Afternoons
There is a specific kind of magic that happens when cinnamon, sugar, and fresh apples meet in a hot oven. As the cake bakes, the scent fills every corner of your home, creating an atmosphere that feels like a warm hug on a crisp day.
This easy apple cake is the recipe you reach for when you want something impressive but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It is humble, rustic, and relies on simple pantry staples that you likely already have on hand.
Whether you are hosting a casual brunch or need a sweet treat to pair with your afternoon coffee, this cake delivers. It is a foolproof bake that honors the natural sweetness of the fruit while maintaining a soft, buttery crumb.
Ingredients
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3 large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (plus 2 tablespoons for topping)
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup orange juice (or milk)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan or square baking dish.
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In a small bowl, toss the sliced apples with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, baking powder, and salt.
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Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the oil, eggs, orange juice, and vanilla.
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Mix the batter by hand until it is thick and smooth, being careful not to overwork the flour.
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Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to the edges.
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Arrange half of the spiced apple slices over the batter in a single layer.
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Pour the remaining batter over the apples, then top with the rest of the apple slices.
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Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Why This Recipe Works
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Dual Apple Layers: By layering the apples inside and on top, you get pockets of juicy fruit in every single bite.
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Oil-Based Crumb: Using oil instead of butter ensures the cake stays incredibly moist for days, even if left on the counter.
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The Sugar Crust: The extra dusting of sugar on top creates a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft fruit.
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Citrus Brightness: A splash of orange juice adds a hidden acidity that makes the apple flavor pop without tasting “fruity.”
Tips for Best Results
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Choose the Right Apple: Use firm apples that hold their shape. Granny Smith offers a tart contrast, while Honeycrisp provides a honey-like sweetness.
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Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make this rustic cake feel tough rather than tender.
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Check the Center: Because the apples release moisture, the center can take longer to bake than the edges; always use the toothpick test.
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Room Temp Eggs: Using room temperature eggs allows them to emulsify better with the oil, resulting in a more even rise.
Variations & Substitutions
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Add Some Crunch: Fold a half-cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an earthy, toasted texture.
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Gluten-Free Option: This recipe works well with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, provided it contains xanthan gum.
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Warm Spice Twist: Replace half of the cinnamon with apple pie spice or a pinch of ground cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
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Add Raisins: If you love a classic Jewish apple cake style, add a handful of golden raisins to the apple mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store this cake?
This cake stays fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Can I use applesauce instead of oil?
You can replace half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version, though the texture will be slightly denser.
Do I have to peel the apples?
While you can leave the skins on, peeling them results in a much more tender “melt-in-your-mouth” texture throughout the cake.
Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Yes, but you will need to increase the bake time by 10 to 15 minutes and check the center frequently to ensure it is cooked through.
Is this cake freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and foil; it will stay delicious in the freezer for up to three months.
This easy apple cake is a testament to the fact that you don’t need fancy techniques to create something memorable. It is a reliable, comforting classic that invites everyone to the table for a second slice.
