If you're looking for a simple, delicious, and cozy treat to bring the smell of fall into your home, this apple cake is the perfect choice.

Easy Moist Apple Cake

Video by Bear Naked Food

Made with fresh apples, applesauce, and basic pantry ingredients, this cake is not only easy to prepare but also so moist that it doesn’t even need frosting. It’s a fantastic option for a quick dessert, and it keeps well for several days, making it a great make-ahead treat.

Ingredients for the Perfect Apple Cake

This apple cake recipe uses just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen:

• Butter and Applesauce: These two ingredients work together to make the cake moist and flavorful.

• Eggs: Three eggs provide moisture and help to bind the cake batter together.

• Sugar: One cup of brown sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness.

• Flour: All-purpose flour gives the cake structure and stability.

• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.

• Baking Soda and Baking Powder: These leavening agents help the cake rise and become light and airy.

• Vanilla: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out the sweetness and balances the flavors.

• Apples: Three cups of diced apples provide that essential fruity flavor and moist texture.

Choosing the Right Apples for Your Cake

The type of apple you use will affect the flavor and texture of the cake. While you can use just one variety, a combination of apples will give the best results. Some excellent choices include Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, and Gala apples. The sweetness and tartness from different varieties create a more complex flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Apple Cake

Making this apple cake is incredibly straightforward. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly and dusting it with flour. Then, using an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter, applesauce, and eggs until the mixture is foamy.

Next, add the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix everything until well combined, and then stir in the diced apples. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.

Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Should You Frost Your Apple Cake?

While this apple cake is perfectly delicious without any frosting, you can easily dress it up if desired. A dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of glaze, or even a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the cake to a new level of indulgence. For an extra touch, try adding a brown sugar-maple frosting for a rich, autumn-inspired flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Your Apple Cake

This apple cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days if covered properly. If you prefer to keep it longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This apple cake is a true fall favorite, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it's a simple yet satisfying treat that’s sure to please everyone. Easy to make, easy to store, and incredibly tasty—this cake is a keeper!