Can You Make a Moist, Flavorful Apple Cake in Just 1 Hour?
Craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s bursting with apple and cinnamon flavor? What if you could whip up a tender, nutty apple cake with a fluffy whipped topping in just 60 minutes? Easy Apple Cake is your answer—a beloved recipe with 33 reviews, perfect for fall gatherings, family desserts, or cozy afternoons. Ready to fill your kitchen with warm, spiced aromas? Let’s get baking!
Overview: Why Easy Apple Cake Shines
What makes Easy Apple Cake so special? This simple yet delicious cake combines a moist batter with tart apples, crunchy walnuts, and warm cinnamon, all baked in a single pan for easy prep and cleanup. The whipped topping adds a light, creamy finish, making it a versatile dessert for potlucks, holidays, or weeknight treats. With straightforward steps and pantry staples, it’s beginner-friendly, kid-approved, and adaptable for dietary needs.
Time requirement: 1 hour total, with 25 minutes prep and 35 minutes cooking. The one-pan method keeps it fuss-free.
Difficulty level: Easy! If you can mix a batter and chop apples, you’re set. A large bowl, 13×9-inch baking dish, and a whisk or mixer are the main tools, and kids can help fold in apples or spread batter.
Health perks: Apples provide fiber and vitamin C for digestion and immunity, while walnuts offer heart-healthy omega-3s. The moderate oil and sugar keep it balanced, and the recipe supports gluten-free or lower-sugar diets with swaps.
Essential Ingredients: What You Need and Why It Matters
Here’s the lineup for 20 servings (small squares from a 13×9-inch pan). Each ingredient plays a key role, with swaps for flexibility.
- Sugar (1-3/4 cups): Sweetens the cake and balances tart apples. Sub: 1-1/2 cups coconut sugar or 1 cup sugar + 1/4 cup maple syrup for less sweetness.
- Canola oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender. Sub: Vegetable oil, melted butter, or unsweetened applesauce for lower fat.
- Large eggs (3): Bind the batter and add structure. Sub: Flax eggs (3 tablespoons flaxseed meal + 9 tablespoons water) for vegan.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavor with warmth. Sub: Almond extract or omit.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure. Sub: Gluten-free flour blend or whole wheat flour (may be denser).
- Baking powder (1-1/4 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise. Sub: No substitute; critical for leavening.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavors. Sub: Kosher salt or reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for low-sodium.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, spiced flavor. Sub: Apple pie spice or nutmeg.
- Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Boosts rise with acidic apples. Sub: No substitute; critical for texture.
- Tart apples (2 cups, finely chopped, peeled): Add moisture and tangy flavor. Sub: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or pears.
- Walnuts (1 cup, chopped): Provide crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Sub: Pecans, almonds, or omit for nut-free.
- Whipped topping (1-1/4 cups): Adds creamy lightness. Sub: Whipped cream, coconut whipped cream, or dust with powdered sugar.
These ingredients are pantry staples, creating a wholesome, comforting dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Bake This Cake!
Ready to start? You’ll need a large bowl, 13×9-inch baking dish, and a whisk or electric mixer. These steps are simple, with tips for success.
- Preheat oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Tip: Line with parchment for easy removal.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat 1-3/4 cups sugar, 1 cup canola oil, 3 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with a whisk or electric mixer until well blended (about 1-2 minutes). Tip: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk 2 cups flour, 1-1/4 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda. Gradually beat into the wet mixture until just blended. Tip: Add dry ingredients in thirds to avoid lumps; don’t overmix.
- Add apples and walnuts: Fold in 2 cups finely chopped apples and 1 cup chopped walnuts with a spatula until evenly distributed. Tip: Chop apples into small, 1/4-inch pieces for even baking; pat dry if juicy.
- Bake: Transfer batter to the greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 35-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Tip: Check at 35 minutes; cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool and serve: Cool on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes. Cut into squares and serve with 1-1/4 cups whipped topping (spoon or spread over pieces). Tip: Serve warm for extra coziness or at room temp for easy slicing.
Assembly: Plate It Like a Pro
This apple cake is moist and golden, making it easy to plate beautifully. Here’s how to make it look as good as it tastes.
- Cake: Cut into 20 small squares (4×5 grid) and place 1-2 pieces per plate with a dollop of whipped topping. Tip: Dust with powdered sugar for extra flair.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few walnut pieces for texture. Tip: A drizzle of caramel sauce elevates it to gourmet status.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with vanilla ice cream, a hot cup of coffee, or fresh apple slices for a complete dessert. Tip: Prep coffee during cooling for efficiency.
- Presentation: For a cozy vibe, use white or rustic plates to highlight the golden cake and creamy topping. Serve family-style from the pan for gatherings. Tip: A mint sprig or apple slice garnish adds a restaurant-style touch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips: Keep It Fresh
Want to enjoy leftovers or prep ahead? Here’s how to keep your cake tasting great.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days (without whipped topping). Reheat slices in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds. Add fresh whipped topping when serving. Tip: Store topping separately to avoid soggy cake.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled, ungarnished cake (whole or sliced) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently; add fresh topping. Tip: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Make-ahead: Chop apples and walnuts a day ahead; store in the fridge. Mix batter and bake fresh for best texture. Tip: Don’t add apples early—moisture can affect batter.
Health tip: Storing properly preserves the apples’ fiber and walnuts’ omega-3s, so you’re getting nutrients even in leftovers.
Recipe Variations: Get Creative
This recipe is flexible. Try these twists to keep it exciting while staying wholesome.
- Vegan version: Use flax eggs, vegan butter or oil, and coconut whipped cream.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour blend; check whipped topping for additives.
- Spiced boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
- Nut-free option: Omit walnuts; add 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries.
- Fruit swap: Replace apples with pears or mix in 1/2 cup chopped berries.
- Lower sugar: Reduce sugar to 1-1/4 cups and add 1/4 cup applesauce for sweetness.
Conclusion: Savor Your Cozy Apple Cake
You’re now ready to master Easy Apple Cake! This wholesome, moist dessert brings tart apples, crunchy walnuts, and warm cinnamon together for a treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings, family desserts, or cozy evenings. With just 1 hour and one pan, you can create a flavorful, nutrient-packed cake that’s as delicious as it is easy. Play with vegan or nut-free twists to make it your own. Grab that mixing bowl, chop some apples, and enjoy this comforting delight. Share your results in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
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Easy Apple Cake
Description
Craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s bursting with apple and cinnamon flavor? What if you could whip up a tender, nutty apple cake with a fluffy whipped topping in just 60 minutes? Easy Apple Cake is your answer—a beloved recipe with 33 reviews, perfect for fall gatherings, family desserts, or cozy afternoons
Ingredients
Here’s the lineup for 20 servings (small squares from a 13×9-inch pan). Each ingredient plays a key role, with swaps for flexibility.
- Sugar (1-3/4 cups): Sweetens the cake and balances tart apples. Sub: 1-1/2 cups coconut sugar or 1 cup sugar + 1/4 cup maple syrup for less sweetness.
- Canola oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender. Sub: Vegetable oil, melted butter, or unsweetened applesauce for lower fat.
- Large eggs (3): Bind the batter and add structure. Sub: Flax eggs (3 tablespoons flaxseed meal + 9 tablespoons water) for vegan.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavor with warmth. Sub: Almond extract or omit.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure. Sub: Gluten-free flour blend or whole wheat flour (may be denser).
- Baking powder (1-1/4 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise. Sub: No substitute; critical for leavening.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavors. Sub: Kosher salt or reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for low-sodium.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, spiced flavor. Sub: Apple pie spice or nutmeg.
- Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Boosts rise with acidic apples. Sub: No substitute; critical for texture.
- Tart apples (2 cups, finely chopped, peeled): Add moisture and tangy flavor. Sub: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or pears.
- Walnuts (1 cup, chopped): Provide crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Sub: Pecans, almonds, or omit for nut-free.
- Whipped topping (1-1/4 cups): Adds creamy lightness. Sub: Whipped cream, coconut whipped cream, or dust with powdered sugar.
These ingredients are pantry staples, creating a wholesome, comforting dessert
Instructions
Ready to start? You’ll need a large bowl, 13×9-inch baking dish, and a whisk or electric mixer. These steps are simple, with tips for success.
- Preheat oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Tip: Line with parchment for easy removal.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat 1-3/4 cups sugar, 1 cup canola oil, 3 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with a whisk or electric mixer until well blended (about 1-2 minutes). Tip: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk 2 cups flour, 1-1/4 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda. Gradually beat into the wet mixture until just blended. Tip: Add dry ingredients in thirds to avoid lumps; don’t overmix.
- Add apples and walnuts: Fold in 2 cups finely chopped apples and 1 cup chopped walnuts with a spatula until evenly distributed. Tip: Chop apples into small, 1/4-inch pieces for even baking; pat dry if juicy.
- Bake: Transfer batter to the greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 35-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Tip: Check at 35 minutes; cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool and serve: Cool on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes. Cut into squares and serve with 1-1/4 cups whipped topping (spoon or spread over pieces). Tip: Serve warm for extra coziness or at room temp for easy slicing.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Can I use different apples? Yes! Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are tart and ideal; avoid soft varieties like Red Delicious.
What are the health benefits? Apples provide fiber and vitamin C; walnuts offer omega-3s; moderate oil keeps it balanced.
How do I know the cake is done? A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean after 35-45 minutes.
Can I prep for a party? Yes! Chop apples and walnuts a day ahead; bake fresh for best texture.
Kid-friendly? Totally! Sweet apples and creamy topping appeal to kids; omit nuts for allergies.
Why is my cake dense? Overmixed batter or too-wet apples. Mix gently and pat apples dry next time.
Gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour; check whipped topping.
How to store leftovers? Fridge for 5 days; reheat in oven or microwave. Freeze for 3 months; thaw before serving.