Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Apple Dapple Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 58 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Apple Dapple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring tender apples and crunchy nuts folded into a cinnamon-spiced batter. Baked to perfection and topped with a rich, buttery brown sugar glaze, this classic cake is perfect for cozy gatherings or an indulgent treat.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients and Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Glaze

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the vegetable oil. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and maintain cake tenderness.
  6. Add Apples and Nuts: Fold in the peeled, cored, and chopped apples along with the chopped walnuts or pecans carefully to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
  7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and spread it out. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked.
  8. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes to set before glazing.
  9. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir constantly and bring to a gentle simmer lasting 2-3 minutes until sugar dissolves and the glaze slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for extra aroma.
  10. Glaze the Cake: Pour the warm glaze evenly over the top of the slightly cooled cake to create a deliciously sticky and rich topping.
  11. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into squares and serve warm to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
  • You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts if allergic.
  • Make sure not to overmix the batter once dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
  • If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar amount by a tablespoon.
  • The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat slices gently in the microwave before serving for a warm dessert experience.