Easy Apple Cake Recipe: Moist & Delicious Fall Dessert

This super easy apple cake recipe is simple and super tasty—just what you need on a chilly fall day. Mix everything in one bowl, and it turns into a moist, soft cake that’s great for dessert, breakfast, or a midday snack. Loaded with fresh apples, it’s sweetened with brown sugar and spiced with cinnamon for that cozy flavor.

Apple CakePhoto byThyme of Season

What's this Apple Cake Made With

Apples are a must! They bring that cozy autumn vibe to the cake and keep it super moist.

Dark brown sugar is my go-to here; it adds a deep, rich flavor that really enhances the cake.

Eggs are essential too, making the apple cake light and fluffy.

You'll want to use oil for that extra moisture and richness—stick with a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or avocado for the best outcome.

Don’t forget the vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg; they give the cake a lovely warm spice. And seriously, add a pinch of salt! It really elevates those sweet and spiced notes.

You only need a cup of all-purpose flour since the apples are the star of the show. Baking powder and baking soda will help it rise.

Measured Ingredients

• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup neutral oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 small apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into equal-sized pieces (about 2 cups)
• powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

How to Make This Apple Cake

Step 1: Start by placing a rack in the middle of your oven and preheat it to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round baking pan with butter or nonstick spray, and don’t forget to line the bottom with a circle of parchment paper.

Step 2: In a big bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and eggs until they’re light and frothy, which should take about a minute. Then mix in the oil, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Next, add the flour, baking powder, and baking soda, whisking until the mixture is nice and smooth.

Step 4: Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the apples and ¼ cup of the nuts. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and use an offset spatula to smooth out the top, ensuring the apples are evenly spread to the edges. Give the pan a light tap on the counter to get rid of any air bubbles, then sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of nuts on top.

Step 5: Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until it’s puffed up and golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (it’s okay if there’s a little moisture from the apples).

Step 6: Let the pan cool on a rack for about 15 minutes. Run a thin knife around the edges and carefully flip the cake onto a cooling rack. Flip it back so the top side is up.

Step 7: Once the cake is cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy this apple cake with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a tasty dessert after a delicious dinner.