Apple cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect fall dessert. The combination of moist, spiced cake and the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re preparing this cake for a holiday dinner or a cozy afternoon treat, this dessert will not only delight your taste buds but also impress your guests with its delightful aroma and flavor.
If you’re a fan of apple-based desserts, don’t miss out on this Blue Ribbon Winning Apple Pie recipe that brings out the best in every apple. For something a little different, you might also want to try fried apple pies, which offer a crispy, golden exterior paired with a sweet, apple filling—perfect for anyone who loves classic apple desserts with a twist.
In this recipe, the apple cake is full of flavor thanks to the cinnamon, vanilla, and fresh, crisp apples. Topped with cream cheese frosting, it creates an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients for Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
For the Apple Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions: How to Make Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Set the bowl aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together:
- Eggs
- Sugar
- Oil
Mix for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes lighter in color. Then, add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until the batter is just combined. The batter should be thick and chunky, thanks to the apples.
Step 5: Add Apples and Nuts
Fold in the chopped apples and optional walnuts for a bit of crunch.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together:
- Cream cheese
- Butter
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top, creating an even layer. For a fun touch, you can add decorative swirls or sprinkle some cinnamon on top.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This cake is best served at room temperature. You can dress it up further by adding:
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top
- A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast
Pairing it with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea will elevate your dessert experience. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a cozy afternoon or a holiday gathering.
Expert Tips for Making Perfect Apple Cake
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp as they hold their shape and provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Stir gently until just combined.
- Cool the Cake Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the frosting to ensure it doesn’t melt.
Variations of Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
While this recipe is a classic, here are a few fun ways to change it up:
- Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the frosting for a richer, indulgent flavor.
- Gluten-Free Apple Cake: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this dessert gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Spiced Apple Cake: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for an extra depth of flavor.
FAQs About Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
How Do I Store Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Store this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Cake?
Yes! You can swap the apples for other fruits such as pears or peaches. Keep in mind that the texture of the cake may change slightly, but the results will still be delicious.
Can I Skip the Cream Cheese Frosting?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to skip the frosting or replace it with a dusting of powdered sugar. Alternatively, try whipped cream or a light glaze.
Conclusion
Apple cake with cream cheese frosting is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines warm spices, sweet apples, and rich frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday dinners to a casual afternoon treat. With its comforting flavors and light, fluffy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Why not give this apple cake a try today? It’s a sweet way to bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen!