Chocolate Chip Apple Cake: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Apple cake and chocolate chips – a match made in dessert heaven! This recipe for Chocolate Chip Apple Cake combines the comforting flavors of spiced apple cake with the delightful burst of chocolate chips in every bite. It’s incredibly easy to make, moist, and perfect for any occasion, from a cozy fall afternoon to a festive holiday gathering. This cake is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
* **Moist and Tender:** The applesauce and oil keep the cake incredibly moist and tender for days.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of apples, cinnamon, and chocolate chips is simply irresistible.
* **Versatile:** You can customize this cake with different types of apples, nuts, or spices to suit your taste.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** This cake is great for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **All-Purpose Flour:** The base of the cake, providing structure.
* **Baking Powder and Baking Soda:** Leavening agents that help the cake rise.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Cinnamon:** Adds warmth and spice to the cake.
* **Nutmeg:** A complementary spice that adds depth of flavor.
* **Oil:** Keeps the cake moist.
* **Granulated Sugar:** Sweetens the cake.
* **Eggs:** Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
* **Vanilla Extract:** Enhances the flavor of the cake.
* **Applesauce:** Adds moisture and apple flavor.
* **Apples:** The star of the show! Use your favorite type of apple, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Adds bursts of chocolatey goodness.
* **Optional: Chopped Nuts (Walnuts, Pecans):** Add a nutty crunch to the cake.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Mixing Bowls:** For mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
* **Whisk:** For whisking together the dry ingredients.
* **Spatula:** For folding the wet and dry ingredients together.
* **9×13 Inch Baking Pan:** The perfect size for this cake.
* **Parchment Paper (Optional):** Makes it easier to remove the cake from the pan.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Oven:** For baking the cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Chocolate Chip Apple Cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Wash, peel, and core the apples.
2. Dice the apples into small, even pieces. You should have about 2-3 cups of diced apples.
3. Set the diced apples aside.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
3. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This is optional but highly recommended.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Make sure the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Add the applesauce and whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
2. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a tough cake.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Chocolate Chips

1. Gently fold in the diced apples and chocolate chips into the batter.
2. If using nuts, fold them in as well.
3. Make sure the apples and chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
2. Spread the batter evenly in the pan.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. The cake should be golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before lifting it out using the parchment paper overhang.
2. Place the cake on a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Apple Cake

* **Use Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients will result in a better-tasting cake.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature ingredients helps them to combine more easily and evenly, resulting in a smoother batter.
* **Grease and Flour the Pan:** This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan. Using parchment paper lining is even better.
* **Check for Doneness:** Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness. Insert the skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
* **Let the Cake Cool Completely:** Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. This will prevent it from crumbling.
* **Add a Glaze:** For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
* **Variations:** Experiment with different types of apples, nuts, or spices to create your own unique version of this cake.

Variations and Add-Ins

Here are some ideas for variations and add-ins to make this Chocolate Chip Apple Cake even more delicious:

* **Different Apples:** Use different types of apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Each type of apple will add a slightly different flavor and texture to the cake.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a nutty crunch.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add chopped dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots for a chewy texture and added sweetness.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle the cake with caramel sauce before serving for a decadent treat.
* **Cream Cheese Frosting:** Frost the cake with cream cheese frosting for a richer and tangier flavor.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest to the batter for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Oats:** Add rolled oats to the batter for a heartier and more textured cake. About 1/2 cup of rolled oats should be perfect.
* **Brown Sugar:** Replace some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer, molasses-like flavor.
* **Sour Cream:** Replace the applesauce with sour cream for a tangier and denser cake.
* **Espresso Powder:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Chip Apple Cake is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience:

* **Warm with Ice Cream:** Serve a warm slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream.
* **With Whipped Cream:** Top the cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
* **With Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle the cake with warm caramel sauce.
* **With Apple Cider:** Serve the cake with a glass of warm apple cider.
* **For Breakfast or Brunch:** Enjoy a slice of cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
* **As a Snack:** Pack a slice of cake for a satisfying afternoon snack.

Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* **Refrigerator:** Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
* **Freezer:** Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Recipe

**Yields:** 12-16 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 30-35 minutes

Ingredients:

* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1 cup vegetable oil
* 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup applesauce
* 2-3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
* 1 cup chocolate chips
* Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add applesauce and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in diced apples, chocolate chips, and nuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice and serve.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-400 per serving
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 5-7g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 200-250mg
* Carbohydrates: 45-55g
* Sugar: 30-35g
* Protein: 3-5g

**Note:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Chip Apple Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture, warm spices, and bursts of chocolatey goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!