All the Warmth of Apple Pie in an Easy Cake
This apple pie cake brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples and soft vanilla cake in one easy dessert. It’s made in just one bowl, baked in a single pan, and perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy weekend treat.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 9–12 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free baking blend)
- 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup (180 ml) milk
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups (450 g) peeled and diced apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji)
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce drizzle
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spatula
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl combine:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Salt
Whisk until evenly blended.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
Add to the bowl:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
Stir until a smooth batter forms.
Do not overmix.
4. Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the diced apples into the batter.
Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
Spread evenly using a spatula.
6. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until:
- The top turns golden brown
- A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
7. Cool & Serve
Allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm.
Flavor & Texture
- Soft, moist cake
- Warm cinnamon apple flavor
- Lightly caramelized edges
- Similar comfort flavor to apple pie
Tips for Best Results
• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.
• Dice apples into small cubes so they cook evenly.
• Do not overbake or the cake may dry out.
• Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking for extra flavor.
Optional Additions
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Streusel topping for a crumb-style cake
Storage
Room temperature: 2 days (covered)
Refrigerator: 4–5 days
Freezer: Up to 2 months
Reheat slices in the microwave for 20 seconds.
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Warm caramel drizzle
- Extra cinnamon sugar dusting
