The Ultimate Apple Cake Collection: Our Best Recipes of All Time
Apple cake. The very words evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and baking apples. It’s a dessert that transcends seasons, equally welcome on a crisp autumn evening as it is during a breezy summer brunch. But with so many apple cake recipes out there, how do you find the absolute *best*? That’s where we come in. We’ve scoured the culinary landscape, tested countless variations, and compiled our definitive list of the ultimate apple cake recipes of all time. From classic and rustic to modern and elegant, there’s an apple cake here to satisfy every craving and skill level. Get ready to preheat your oven and embark on a delicious apple-filled adventure!
## Why Apple Cake Reigns Supreme
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore why apple cake is such a beloved dessert:
* **Versatility:** Apple cake can be adapted to suit a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. Use different types of apples, add nuts or dried fruits, incorporate spices, or even create gluten-free or vegan versions. The possibilities are endless!
* **Simplicity:** While some apple cakes are elaborate, many are surprisingly easy to make. They’re perfect for beginner bakers or for those times when you want a homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
* **Comfort Food:** There’s something inherently comforting about apple cake. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and a tender crumb creates a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction.
* **Seasonal Appeal:** Apples are at their peak in the fall, making apple cake the perfect autumnal treat. However, with the availability of apples year-round, you can enjoy this dessert any time of year.
## Our Top Apple Cake Recipes
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the recipes! We’ve categorized them to help you find the perfect apple cake for your needs.
### 1. Classic Spiced Apple Cake
This is the quintessential apple cake recipe, featuring a moist and tender crumb, a generous amount of apples, and a warm blend of spices. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 4 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
* 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Fold in Apples and Nuts:** Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using).
7. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Serve:** Dust with powdered sugar or frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use room temperature butter for easier creaming.
* Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
* Use a combination of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
* Toast the nuts before adding them to the batter for a richer flavor.
### 2. Rustic Apple Galette
For a more casual and rustic dessert, try an apple galette. It’s a free-form tart that’s incredibly easy to make and requires no special equipment.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Crust:**
* 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/4 cup ice water
* **For the Filling:**
* 4 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Crust:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat.
3. **Assemble the Galette:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Arrange the Filling:** Arrange the apple slices in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Dot the apples with small pieces of butter.
5. **Fold the Crust:** Fold the edges of the dough over the apple filling, pleating as needed. Brush the crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
6. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
7. **Cool:** Let the galette cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
**Tips for Success:**
* Keep the butter and water as cold as possible to prevent the gluten from developing too much.
* Don’t overwork the dough, as this will make it tough.
* Use a variety of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
* Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling to your liking, depending on the sweetness of the apples.
### 3. Caramel Apple Cake with Salted Caramel Drizzle
This decadent apple cake is perfect for those who love caramel. The moist apple cake is topped with a rich caramel frosting and a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Cake:**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 3/4 cups packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup sour cream
* 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
* **For the Caramel Frosting:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* **For the Salted Caramel Drizzle:**
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon sea salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Cake:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
2. **Make the Caramel Frosting:** In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Let the frosting cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled cake.
3. **Make the Salted Caramel Drizzle:** In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it melts and turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the butter until melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the sea salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling it over the frosted cake.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use high-quality butter for the best flavor in the frosting and caramel sauce.
* Be careful when making caramel, as it can burn easily.
* Let the frosting cool slightly before spreading it on the cake, as this will make it easier to spread.
* Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm.
### 4. German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen)
This classic German apple cake is known for its dense, moist texture and its simple yet delicious flavor. It’s often made with a yeast-based dough, but this recipe uses baking powder for a quicker and easier version.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup milk
* 4 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for sprinkling
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. **Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and spread evenly.
7. **Arrange Apples:** Arrange the apple slices on top of the batter in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each other.
8. **Sprinkle with Sugar and Cinnamon:** Sprinkle the apples with the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
9. **Bake:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing the sides of the springform pan. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
11. **Serve:** Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use a springform pan for easy removal of the cake.
* Arrange the apple slices in an attractive pattern for a beautiful presentation.
* Use a tart apple variety, such as Granny Smith, to balance the sweetness of the cake.
### 5. Apple Crumble Cake
Combine the best of both worlds with this Apple Crumble Cake! It features a moist apple cake base topped with a buttery, crumbly topping.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Cake:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup sour cream
* 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
* **For the Crumble Topping:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Make the Cake:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
3. **Make the Crumble Topping:** In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Sprinkle with Crumble Topping:** Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple cake batter.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use cold butter for the crumble topping to create a crumbly texture.
* Press the crumble topping lightly into the cake batter to help it adhere.
* Add chopped nuts to the crumble topping for extra flavor and texture.
### 6. Vegan Apple Cake
Enjoy a delicious apple cake without any animal products! This vegan version is moist, flavorful, and easy to make.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 cup vegetable oil
* 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* 1 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
* 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
* 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Fold in Apples and Nuts:** Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using).
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. **Serve:** Dust with powdered sugar or frost with your favorite vegan frosting.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use a high-quality vegetable oil for the best flavor.
* Make sure your baking soda is fresh for optimal leavening.
* Add a touch of lemon juice to the apples to prevent browning.
### 7. Gluten-Free Apple Cake
This gluten-free apple cake is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It’s made with a blend of gluten-free flours and has a moist and tender crumb.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
* 1/2 cup almond flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
* 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch springform pan with gluten-free flour.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Fold in Apples and Nuts:** Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using).
7. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Serve:** Dust with powdered sugar or frost with your favorite frosting.
**Tips for Success:**
* Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
* Almond flour adds moisture and flavor to gluten-free baked goods.
* Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
## Tips for Baking the Perfect Apple Cake
No matter which recipe you choose, these tips will help you bake the perfect apple cake every time:
* **Use the Right Apples:** The best apples for baking are those that hold their shape and don’t turn to mush. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Fuji are all excellent choices. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Room temperature butter and eggs will cream together more easily, creating a lighter and fluffier cake.
* **Preheat Your Oven:** Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the cake. This will ensure that it bakes evenly.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking can result in a dry cake. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
* **Let the Cake Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the cake from breaking.
## Serving Suggestions
Apple cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with these accompaniments:
* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** A classic combination that’s always a hit.
* **Whipped Cream:** Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a touch of elegance.
* **Caramel Sauce:** For an extra-indulgent treat.
* **Cream Cheese Frosting:** A tangy and sweet frosting that complements the apples perfectly.
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** A simple yet delicious topping.
* **Hot Coffee or Tea:** The perfect warm beverage to enjoy with a slice of apple cake.
## Storing Apple Cake
* **Room Temperature:** Store apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
* **Refrigerator:** Store apple cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
* **Freezer:** Freeze apple cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
## Conclusion
Apple cake is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With so many delicious recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find one that you’ll love. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake the ultimate apple cake! Whether you prefer a classic spiced cake, a rustic galette, or a decadent caramel apple cake, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of this comforting and delicious treat. Happy baking!