Description
Nothing says comfort quite like the aroma of a freshly baked apple cake wafting through your kitchen. This Fresh Apple Cake Recipe is the perfect blend of warm spices, tender apples, and a luscious caramel-like frosting that will make any occasion special. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday party, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups sugar
- 3 eggs
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 3 cups peeled and chopped apples
For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
1. Prepare the oven and pan Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan to ensure easy removal of the cake once baked.
2. Mix the wet and dry ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine vegetable oil, sugar, and eggs. Stir in the flour and baking soda until just incorporated.
3. Add the flavor enhancers Gently fold in vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and peeled, chopped apples. The apples add moisture and natural sweetness, while the pecans provide a delightful crunch.
4. Bake the cake Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 2 hours.
5. Prepare the frosting In a small saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and evaporated milk. Boil the mixture for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Place the saucepan in a bowl filled with ice water and beat until the frosting reaches a spreading consistency.
6. Frost the cake Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Why This Fresh Apple Cake is Irresistible
- Rich Flavor: The combination of apples, pecans, and vanilla creates a symphony of fall-inspired flavors.
- Moist Texture: The oil and apples ensure that the cake stays moist for days.
- Heavenly Frosting: The buttery caramel frosting takes this dessert to a whole new level of indulgence.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Warm It Up: Serve a slice slightly warmed to enhance the flavors of the tender apples and rich frosting. A quick 10-second microwave session works wonders.
- Pair with Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Drizzle Extra Caramel: For added indulgence, drizzle store-bought or homemade caramel sauce over the cake before serving.
- Perfect with Coffee or Tea: Pair the cake with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or apple cider for the ultimate cozy treat.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: To extend its shelf life, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to bring out the best flavor and texture.
- Freezing: This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (without frosting) tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.
By following these serving and storage tips, you