Simple Apple Cake Recipe

This apple cake is delightfully simple to make, with a soft, moist crumb and a hint of warm cinnamon spice. It's a classic comfort dessert, perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Simple Apple Cake Recipe

This recipe calls for tapioca, which is a starchy product made from cassava roots. It's used to thicken and sweeten the cake. If it's not a staple in your pantry, it can often be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets or health food stores. Also, active dry yeast is used; it's a leavening agent that helps the cake to rise. It's usually available in small packets in the baking section.

Ingredients for Simple Apple Cake

Apples: The star of our cake, providing natural sweetness and moisture.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, giving it structure.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Butter: Adds richness and keeps the cake tender.

Active dry yeast: Helps the cake rise and gives it a light texture.

Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps combine the ingredients.

White sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake.

Egg yolks: Contribute to the cake's richness and color.

Tapioca: Used to thicken and sweeten the cake.

Ground cinnamon: Gives a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.

One reader, Jeanie Boren says:

This simple apple cake recipe is a game-changer! The cake turned out moist and flavorful, and the aroma filled my kitchen. The instructions were easy to follow, and the end result was a hit with my family. I'll definitely be making this again!

Jeanie Boren

Techniques Required for Making a Simple Apple Cake

How to prepare the crust: Sift the flour and salt together into a medium bowl, then cut in the butter to pea-sized pieces. Divide the mixture in half, using one half for the bottom crust and the other for the top crust.

How to activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Add the yeast and allow it to dissolve before adding the slightly beaten egg yolks to the mixture.

How to assemble the cake: Roll out one crust to fit a 9x13-inch ungreased pan, then sprinkle tapioca over the dough. Fill the crust with sliced apples, sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, and cover with the top crust. Seal the edges around the pan, tucking the top under, but do not flute and prick.

How to bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and bake the cake for 45 minutes.

How to frost the cake: While the cake is still slightly warm, frost it with butter frosting.

How To Make Simple Apple Cake

Simple and fuss-free, this apple cake recipe is sure to become a new favorite! Enjoy fruity bites of well-spiced cake all in one plate.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

7apples,peeled, cored, sliced
2cupsall purpose flour
1tspsalt
1cupbutter
¼ozactive dry yeast
¼cupwarm water
1tspwhite sugar
2egg yolks
½cuptapioca
½cupwhite sugar
1tspground cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Sift the flour and salt together into a medium bowl. Cut in the butter to pea sized pieces. Set aside.
Put the warm water and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a large bowl. Add the yeast, then let dissolve. Add the slightly beaten egg yolks to the yeast mixture.
Add flour mixture and gently mix until mixture forms a ball. Divide in half.
Use one-half for bottom and one-half for top crust. Roll out one crust to fit a 9×13-inch ungreased pan. Sprinkle the tapioca over the dough.
Fill with sliced apples, piled high. Sprinkle with the mixture of ¾ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
Roll the top crust to fit the pan. Put the top over the apples, seal in around pan, tucking the top under but do not flute and prick.
Bake for 45 minutes.
While still slightly warm, frost with butter frosting. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 166.32kcal
Fat: 8.19g
Saturated Fat: 5.00g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.41g
Carbohydrates: 22.68g
Fiber: 1.72g
Sugar: 10.00g
Protein: 1.60g
Cholesterol: 32.51mg
Sodium: 99.55mg
Calcium: 10.45mg
Potassium: 75.18mg
Iron: 0.65mg
Vitamin A: 70.58µg
Vitamin C: 2.45mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Simple Apple Cake

When preparing the apples for this cake, consider leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrients. The skin of the apple contains a good amount of fiber and vitamins which can enhance the health benefits of your cake. Plus, it adds a nice color contrast to the cake. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly before slicing them.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Apple Cake Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the apple filling and dough a day in advance to save time on the day of baking.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix the dough, saving time and effort compared to hand mixing.

Bake in batches: If making multiple cakes, bake them in batches to save time and oven space.

Organize ingredients: Pre-measure and organize all ingredients before starting to streamline the baking process.

Quick apple prep: Use an apple corer and slicer to quickly prepare the apples for the cake.

Substitute Ingredients For Simple Apple Cake Recipe

apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness to apples, making them a great substitute in a simple apple cake recipe.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative, adding a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the cake.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the cake.
active dry yeast - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for yeast in a cake recipe, providing leavening without the need for rising time.
tapioca - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent in place of tapioca, providing a similar texture to the cake.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of white sugar, adding a unique flavor to the cake.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, adding a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the cake.

Essential Tools for Making an Apple Cake

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly preparing the apples for the cake recipe.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dry and wet ingredients for the cake batter. It's also used for tossing the sliced apples with the sugar and cinnamon.
Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to roll out the dough for the crust of the apple cake.
9x13-inch baking pan: This baking pan is the perfect size for baking the apple cake. It provides enough space for the cake to cook evenly.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush is used for applying the butter frosting to the warm apple cake after it comes out of the oven.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Apple Cake

Allow the apple cake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. The cake will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature.
If you want to store the cake in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. The cake will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents. The cake will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you're ready to serve the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the cake, wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This will make it easy to grab a slice of cake whenever you want one.
If you've frosted the cake with butter frosting, it's best to freeze the cake unfrosted. Frost the cake after it has thawed and just before serving for the best texture and appearance.

How To Reheat Leftover Apple Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover apple cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out or browning too much. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through. The foil will help to retain moisture and keep the cake soft and tender.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place a single slice of apple cake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high power for 20-30 seconds, or until the cake is warm. If you're reheating multiple slices, you may need to increase the time slightly. Be careful not to overheat, as the microwave can quickly dry out the cake.
If you want to add a touch of indulgence, try warming a slice of apple cake in a skillet with a pat of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat, then add the cake slice. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the cake is warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works best for single servings.
For a crisp top and a soft, moist interior, try reheating your apple cake under the broiler. Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the top is lightly toasted and the cake is heated through. Keep a close eye on the cake to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your apple cake. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of cake in the basket and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through. This method will give you a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, moist center.

Random Fact About Apple Cake Recipes

The apple cake recipe is a traditional dessert that is enjoyed in many cultures around the world. It is a versatile dish that can be made with various types of apples, each offering a unique flavor and texture to the cake. Apples are a rich source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, making this cake not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a warm and comforting aroma that fills the kitchen while baking. This simple apple cake recipe is a perfect way to make use of an abundance of apples and create a delightful treat for any occasion.

Is Making Apple Cake at Home Economical?

This simple apple cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Apples are generally affordable and readily available, making this a budget-friendly dessert option. The basic ingredients like flour, butter, and yeast are also pantry staples, keeping the overall cost low. With a rating of 8/10, this recipe offers a delicious and economical way to enjoy a homemade dessert. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it a wallet-friendly choice for a sweet treat.

Is This Apple Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This apple cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High butter content (1 cup), which contributes to saturated fat intake
Refined white flour and sugar, which lack nutritional value and can cause blood sugar spikes
Limited nutritional benefits from the apples, as they are overshadowed by the other ingredients

However, the recipe does include some redeeming qualities, such as the use of whole apples (with skin) for added fiber and nutrients, and the inclusion of cinnamon, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the butter content by half and substitute the other half with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt for moisture and a protein boost
Cut back on the sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, as the natural sweetness of the apples can help compensate
Increase the number of apples used to boost the fruit content and overall nutritional value
Experiment with adding other spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor and potential health benefits
Serve the cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of butter frosting for a protein-rich, lower-fat topping

Editor's Thoughts on This Simple Apple Cake Recipe

The recipe for the simple apple cake has potential, but it could benefit from some adjustments. The use of yeast in a cake recipe is unconventional and may result in a texture that is more bread-like than cake-like. Additionally, the amount of sugar and cinnamon seems insufficient for the quantity of apples and flour used. Consider incorporating more sugar and spices to enhance the flavor. Overall, with some modifications, this recipe has the potential to yield a delicious apple cake.

Enhance Your Simple Apple Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives

Grilled Vegetables: Colorful assortment of grilled vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Roasted Chicken: Juicy and tender roasted chicken seasoned with herbs and lemon

Mixed Berry Salad: Fresh mixed berry salad with a tangy citrus vinaigrette

Pumpkin Soup: Velvety smooth pumpkin soup topped with toasted pumpkin seeds

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Simple Apple Cake

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and satisfying flavor that will warm you up from the inside out.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: This garlic parmesan roasted broccoli is a delicious and healthy side dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and roasted broccoli creates a flavorful and savory dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut creates a tropical flavor that will transport you to a sunny paradise with every bite.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Simple Apple Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. A delightful and elegant appetizer that will impress your guests.

Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. A classic Italian appetizer that is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and rich pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please any pasta lover.

Beef Stroganoff: Savor the hearty and savory flavors of tender beef and mushrooms in a luscious sour cream sauce. This classic dish is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress with its comforting and rich taste.

Why trust this Simple Apple Cake Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh apples and a combination of flour and butter to create a delicious, comforting cake. The addition of cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor, while the use of yeast and tapioca ensures a light and airy texture. The step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, and the butter frosting adds a delightful finishing touch. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the thoughtful method to create a delightful apple cake that's perfect for any occasion.

Share your thoughts on this simple apple cake recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use different types of fruit in this recipe. Pears, peaches, or berries would all work well as substitutes for the apples.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. You can use the same amount of instant yeast as the recipe calls for active dry yeast, and you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it first.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or the frosting.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this apple cake ahead of time. It can be stored at room temperature for a day or two, or you can refrigerate it for longer storage. The flavors often develop even more after a day or two.

Can I freeze the apple cake?

Yes, you can freeze the apple cake. Once it has cooled completely, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.