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Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

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This Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, spiced dessert loaded with fresh apples and topped with rich, tangy frosting. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for fall, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting homemade cake full of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

  • For the Apple Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups fresh apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or mixed)
  • Optional: 1/2–1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3–4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In another bowl, beat eggs with granulated and brown sugar. Stir in oil and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
  5. Fold in chopped apples and optional nuts.
  6. Pour the batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let cake cool completely.
  8. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat until smooth.
  9. Spread frosting over cooled cake, slice, and serve.

Notes

  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.
  • Add toasted pecans on top for crunch and presentation.
  • Substitute frosting with a maple glaze or dust with powdered sugar for a lighter finish.
  • This recipe also works well in a bundt pan or as cupcakes—adjust bake time accordingly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/fresh-apple-cake-with-dreamy-cream-cheese-frosting/