Easy & Delicious Smitten Kitchen Apple Cake Recipe

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Discover the Magic of Smitten Kitchen's Apple Cake

If you're searching for the perfect fall dessert, look no further than the Smitten Kitchen apple cake. This isn't just any apple cake; it's a masterpiece of moistness, flavor, and comforting simplicity. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe will become a cherished favorite.

Why This Apple Cake Stands Out

The Smitten Kitchen apple cake recipe is renowned for several reasons:

  • Unmatched Moisture: The generous amount of apples and oil ensures a supremely moist cake that stays fresh for days.
  • Incredible Flavor: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg complements the tartness of the apples, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
  • Easy to Make: This recipe requires no special equipment and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend baking.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before diving into the baking process, gather these essential ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Smitten Kitchen apple cake:

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
  6. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Cake

  • Choose the Right Apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples adds complexity to the flavor.
  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to ensure the cake is fully baked. If it comes out with batter, bake for a few more minutes.

Variations to Try

  • Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked cake for an extra layer of sweetness.
  • Apple Crumble Cake: Top the cake with a buttery crumble topping before baking.
  • Spiced Apple Cake: Add a pinch of cloves or ginger to the batter for a warmer, spicier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

The Smitten Kitchen apple cake is delicious on its own, but it's even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Make It Yours!

Ready to bake your own Smitten Kitchen apple cake? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to enjoy a slice of autumnal bliss. Don't forget to share your creations and tag us in your photos! #SmittenKitchenAppleCake #AppleCakeRecipe #FallBaking

External Links

For more delightful recipes, check out Smitten Kitchen. You might also enjoy exploring other apple cake recipes.

Enjoy baking this wonderful cake!