Moist Apple Cake with Brown Sugar Topping

Name: Moist Apple Cake with Brown Sugar Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs (at room temperature); 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup milk (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups apples (peeled, cored, and cut into chunks); 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

55 min 8 slices Easy

All Recipes

Enjoy a cinnamon-scented apple cake with chunky apples and a sweet brown sugar crust.

Prep

15 min

Cook

40 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Apple cake is a classic treat that embodies the comforting flavours of fall. This recipe showcases the delightful contrast between a soft, moist crumb and the tender chunks of fresh apples. Unlike grated apples, which can make the batter too wet, chunks provide bursts of texture and flavour, making every bite a delightful experience. The cinnamon-scented cake is crowned with a brown sugar topping that caramelizes to create a sweet, crisp layer. This one-bowl wonder is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The secret to preventing the apple chunks from sinking is to coat them lightly in flour before mixing them into the batter, ensuring they stay distributed throughout the cake.

Instructions

Preheat your oven

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

Pro tip: This ensures easy removal of the cake from the pan.

Mix dry ingredients

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

Pro tip: Make sure there are no clumps in the dry ingredients.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.

Pro tip: Ensure the milk and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.

Incorporate wet and dry ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Pro tip: Overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Prepare the apples

Toss the apple chunks in a tablespoon of flour to coat them lightly. Fold the apples into the batter gently.

Pro tip: This prevents the apple chunks from sinking during baking.

Transfer to pan and add topping

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping and sprinkle it evenly over the batter.

Pro tip: Ensure an even layer for a consistent crust.

Bake the cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: Start checking at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Cooling on a rack prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, firm apples for the best texture.
Coat apple chunks in flour to prevent sinking.
Ensure even distribution of batter for a level cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make an easy apple cake?

This recipe is simple: mix dry and wet ingredients separately, combine, fold in coated apple chunks, and bake with a brown sugar topping.

What type of apples are best for apple cake?

Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well due to their texture and tart flavour.

How do I prevent the apples from sinking in the cake?

Coat the apple chunks in flour before adding them to the batter to keep them suspended.

How long should I bake the apple cake?

Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this moist apple cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. It's also delicious when cooled and paired with a cup of coffee or tea. The cake can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw completely at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

Protein

12g

Fat

A delightful and easy-to-make apple cake using just six ingredients. Perfect for a quick dessert or a cozy afternoon treat.

Easy45 min

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