Apple Dapple Cake is a delightful dessert that effortlessly blends tender apples with warm spices, creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday celebration, this cake is sure to steal the spotlight. My first experience baking this cake was a big hit, as the aromas filled my kitchen and our family couldn’t resist stealing bites before it even cooled down! The combination of a moist, spiced cake topped with a luscious glaze takes comfort food to a whole new level.
Why you’ll love this dish
Apple Dapple Cake stands out for several reasons that make it a must-try in your baking repertoire. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal fuss while still delivering exceptional flavor. The use of fresh apples adds both moisture and a delightful sweetness, making it a kid-approved dessert that everyone will love. Perfect for a cozy weeknight treat or a festive gathering, this cake brings warmth to any occasion.
"This Apple Dapple Cake has become a family favorite! The apples keep it moist, and the glaze makes it irresistible!" – Happy Baker
Preparing Apple Dapple Cake
Making this delicious cake is straightforward, and I’ll walk you through the steps. Picture this: you’re about to create a dessert that fills your home with a heartwarming scent, and it will only take about an hour from start to finish!
The preparation begins with mixing your dry ingredients in one bowl while combining the wet ones in another. Then, you’ll gradually combine these mixtures, fold in those beautiful apple chunks, and bake it until it’s golden brown. Sounds tempting, right?
What you’ll need
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
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Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
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Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
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Fruits:
- 4 cups apples, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch chunks
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Glaze:
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Give yourself the option to swap the granulated sugar for coconut sugar if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, or try using different apple varieties for a flavor twist!
Step-by-step instructions
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Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
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Sift& Mix: In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the vanilla and eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition.
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Blend Dry and Wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing thoroughly between each addition. The batter will be thick, don’t worry; that’s how it’s meant to be!
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Fold in Apples: Using a sturdy wooden spoon, gently fold in the chopped apples to incorporate them evenly within the batter.
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Bake: Spread the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Prepare the Glaze: While the cake bakes, combine all the glaze ingredients in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture simmers. Remove from heat and let cool for about 5 minutes.
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Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is out of the oven, pour the glaze over it while it’s still warm, allowing it to soak in.
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Slice and Serve: Once cooled slightly, slice the cake and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Apple Dapple Cake is delicious on its own but can be even more delightful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added touch, sprinkle some toasted nuts on top or drizzle caramel sauce for a decadent finish. You might also love serving it with a warm cup of spiced tea or apple cider for an autumnal feel.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Apple Dapple Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. This cake also freezes well; just cut it into slices, wrap them individually, and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.
Pro chef tips
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Choose Your Apples Wisely: Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully in this recipe for their balance of sweetness and tartness.
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Let the Cake Cool: Allow the cake to cool before adding the glaze; this prevents it from soaking in too much and keeps the glaze beautifully on top.
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Double the Recipe: If you’re entertaining a crowd, consider making two cakes and adding different toppings like nuts or chocolate chips to one for a fun variation.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this classic recipe! Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. Want a festive twist? Include dried cranberries or raisins for added flavor and a pop of color. You could also replace some of the apples with pears for a unique taste. For those looking for a gluten-free option, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can yield great results.
Your questions answered
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How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation is around 15-20 minutes, with baking taking about 50-60 minutes. -
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and glaze it just before serving. -
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the glaze?
You can use half-and-half as a substitute or make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk.
This Apple Dapple Cake promises to deliver joy with every bite, and it’s sure to become a treasured recipe in your collection!
