Name: Easy Apple Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 large apples, peeled and diced; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup vegetable oil; ½ cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt

Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a foolproof dessert that’s bursting with cozy flavor, this Easy Apple Cake is just the ticket. With moist crumbs, juicy apples, and a hint of warm cinnamon, every bite feels like a sweet hug from home. Whether you need a last-minute treat for guests or a comforting snack for the weekend, this cake has you covered. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Apple Cake

Simple pantry staples – no fancy ingredients needed!
Ready in just over an hour from start to finish.
Incredibly moist with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Stays fresh for days and is ideal for sharing.

Ingredients For Easy Apple Cake

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup (120ml) milk (whole or 2%)
3 medium apples (about 2 cups), peeled, cored, and diced
Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions: How to Make Easy Apple Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pan & Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry

Add half of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently, then add half the milk. Repeat with remaining dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 5: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in diced apples, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Easy Apple Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Easy Apple Cake Notes & Tips

For best results, use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Learn more about the best apples for baking!
If your apples are very juicy, gently pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the batter.
You can swap in half whole wheat flour for extra fiber without compromising texture.

Easy Apple Cake Variations

Nutty Apple Cake: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Apple-Cranberry Cake: Mix in ½ cup dried cranberries for a tangy twist.
Caramel Apple Swirl: Drizzle 3 tablespoons caramel sauce over the batter before baking for a gooey upgrade.

Equipment Needed For Easy Apple Cake

9-inch round cake pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk or electric mixer
Rubber spatula
Wire rack
Measuring cups and spoons

Easy Apple Cake Storage & Shelf Life

Wrap leftover cake in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze individual slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions for Easy Apple Cake

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a delicious afternoon pick-me-up.
Add a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup for extra decadence.

Pro Tips for the Ultimate Easy Apple Cake

Always measure your flour correctly using the spoon and level method. Here’s how: How to measure flour.
Don’t overmix the batter—stir until just combined to keep the cake tender and moist.
If you want a sweeter topping, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a subtle crunch.

Easy Apple Cake FAQ

Can I make Easy Apple Cake gluten-free?: Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free baking blend for the all-purpose flour in a 1:1 ratio. Be sure to check for a blend suitable for cakes.
Do I have to peel the apples?: Peeled apples create a softer crumb, but you can leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrition. Just wash thoroughly first!
Can I make this sugar-free?: Absolutely! Use your favorite cup-for-cup granulated sugar substitute and follow the instructions as written.

For more about apple nutrition and benefits, check out the health benefits of apples.

Easy Apple Cake