This moist apple walnut cake is a delightful treat, packed with real apple pieces and crunchy walnuts. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or dessert!
The best part? The smell of this cake baking will have everyone gathering in the kitchen. Trust me, you’ll want to grab a slice (or two!) once it cools down. 😋
I love how easy it is to whip up, and it tastes even better the next day! You can enjoy it plain or with a scoop of ice cream for extra yum! Perfect comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your cake, giving it structure. You can swap with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but be aware that it may be a bit denser.
Unsalted Butter: It adds moisture and richness. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Just let it soften to mix easily!
Apples: Fresh apples are key for moisture and flavor. I often use Granny Smith for their tartness, but any baking apple works well. If you don’t have fresh, unsweetened applesauce could work as a substitute, though the texture will differ.
Walnuts: They add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds would make a great alternative. I prefer to lightly toast walnuts for extra flavor.
Buttermilk/Yogurt: This gives the cake a tender crumb. If you’re out of buttermilk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes!
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Moist Cake?
Getting the right moisture level in your cake is crucial! Here’s how to avoid dryness:
- Ensure not to overmix the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Check the cake a few minutes before the suggested time. Overbaking can lead to dryness.
- Use fresh apples, as their moisture seeps into the cake while baking. Diced apples should be evenly distributed to maintain texture.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. This helps retain moisture. Cover it with plastic wrap if you are storing leftovers.
Moist Fresh Apple Walnut Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 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
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
- 2 cups peeled and chopped fresh apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Optional:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-50 minutes to bake. Be sure to let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Total time including cooling is around 1 hour! Perfect for any gathering or a cozy afternoon treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan. This will help your cake come out easily later on!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mixture helps give the cake its flavor and structure, so give it a good mix and set it aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat together for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture turns light and fluffy!
4. Beat in Eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for a lovely aroma and a bit of sweetness.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to combine! Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Start with a bit of the dry mix, then the buttermilk, continuing until everything is just combined. Remember, don’t overmix!
6. Fold in Apples and Walnuts:
Gently fold in the chopped fresh apples and walnuts. This step adds texture and flavor to your cake—yum!
7. Pour and Spread:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so that it cooks nicely.
8. Bake the Cake:
Place your cake in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
9. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar if you like, and slice it up! Enjoy a piece (or two) of your deliciously moist apple walnut cake. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee!
Happy baking!
FAQ About Moist Fresh Apple Walnut Cake
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can use any baking apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn. Just make sure to peel and chop them evenly for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Just follow the package instructions for best results!
Can I Store Leftover Cake?
Yes! Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also add a lovely finish!
