Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring freshly grated apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy treat any time of year.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Carefully fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Grate the apples fresh for best moisture and flavor; peel if desired.
- Walnuts are optional, but they add a nice crunch and texture contrast.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
Keywords: apple cake, cream cheese frosting, moist cake, cinnamon cake, walnut apple cake, fall dessert
