Introduction

Apple Dapple Cake is a moist, warmly spiced dessert packed with tender apple chunks and topped with a rich, creamy glaze. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting treat any time of year.

A close-up of a square piece of apple dessert served on a white plate, showing two main layers; the bottom layer is a dense, chunky apple cake in light brown with visible pieces of apple and a slightly crispy edge, and the top layer is a thick, creamy beige glaze that drips slowly over the sides of the cake. In the background, there is a white baking dish with more of the dessert and a green apple on a white marbled surface. A gold fork rests near the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups vegetable oil
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 large eggs
4 cups apples, peeled and chopped into ½-inch chunks

Glaze:

1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed with an electric mixer until well combined. Add the vanilla extract and beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing thoroughly between each addition. The batter will be very thick.
Step 5: Using a sturdy wooden spoon, gently fold the chopped apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Step 8: Pour the warm glaze over the cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Allow the cake to absorb the glaze and cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
For extra texture, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.
Substitute half of the vegetable oil with applesauce for a lighter version.
If you prefer a spicier cake, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the dry ingredients.

Storage

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.

How to Serve

A square piece of dessert sits on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has two visible layers: the bottom layer is a soft, crumbly cake with a golden brown color and rough texture, showing bits of apple inside, while the top layer is a smooth, thick caramel-colored icing that drips slightly down the sides. In the background, a white baking dish with more of the dessert and a green apple can be seen, adding contrast to the warm tones of the dessert. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?

Yes, you can use any apple variety you prefer. Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well, while sweeter apples such as Fuji or Gala will make the cake sweeter and softer.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.