Autumn Harvest Fresh Apple Cake

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 12
★★★★★
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This Autumn Harvest Fresh Apple Cake is a perfect way to celebrate the fall season, showcasing the crisp, sweet-tart flavor of Granny Smith apples. It's a cozy, comforting dessert that blends spices with the natural sweetness of apples.

Ingredients for Autumn Harvest Fresh Apple Cake

The base of this cake is all about combining the right elements for a tender crumb. Starting with all-purpose flour, which provides structure, while baking powder and baking soda give the cake its rise. The spices — ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves — create a warm, inviting aroma that screams autumn. Unsalted butter is key for richness, creamed with granulated sugar and brown sugar for sweetness and moisture. Eggs act as a binder, and vanilla extract adds a sweet, aromatic note. The orange juice not only moistens but also adds a bright, citrusy balance. Finally, Granny Smith apples offer a tart contrast, while walnuts and optional raisins enhance the texture and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • For best results, use room temperature butter and eggs. They incorporate more easily and create a smoother batter.
  • Chop the apples into small, uniform pieces — this ensures even cooking and distribution throughout the cake.
  • Check the cake a few minutes before the timer goes off; ovens can vary and you don’t want to overbake it.
  • If you prefer a sweeter cake, use Gala or Fuji apples instead of Granny Smith.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own, but for a special touch, serve it slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate it to a decadent dessert worthy of any holiday table. Or, enjoy it simply with a mug of spiced tea to complement the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can use any firm apple variety you prefer.
Can I omit the nuts or raisins?
Absolutely. If you have nut allergies or don't like raisins, feel free to leave them out.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week for longer storage.

Autumn Harvest Fresh Apple Cake Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch baking pan. This simple prep ensures your cake bakes evenly and releases easily. Next, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices in a medium bowl. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, so your cake has a consistent flavor and rise.

In a large bowl, cream the butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a cake with a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This ensures your wet ingredients are well combined.

Next, gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the orange juice. Start and end with the flour mixture. This method helps to maintain a light texture. Once combined, gently fold in the apples, walnuts, and raisins if you're using them. Be careful not to overmix.

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack before serving. This cooling period helps the cake set and makes it easier to slice.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Uses fresh, seasonal apples for peak flavor and texture.
  • Perfect balance of spices to evoke warm autumn vibes.
  • Moist and tender crumb, thanks to the combination of butter and orange juice.
  • Walnuts add a delightful crunch, while optional raisins bring a touch of sweetness.
  • Simple enough for a weeknight treat, yet impressive enough for gatherings.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup orange juice
2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith recommended)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the orange juice, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
6. Fold in the apples, walnuts, and raisins if using, until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack before serving.

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