### Irresistible Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe: A Perfect Fall Dessert
When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. One……
When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. One dessert that captures the essence of autumn is the apple cake with cream cheese frosting recipe. This delightful cake combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of ripe apples, all topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting that takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
#### Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake
This apple cake is not just any ordinary dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. The moist, tender crumb of the cake is packed with chunks of juicy apples, making each bite a delightful experience. The addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg brings warmth and depth, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings and holiday celebrations. And let’s not forget about the star of the show—the cream cheese frosting. Its rich, tangy sweetness perfectly complements the spiced apple cake, creating a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible.
#### Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering apple cake with cream cheese frosting recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- **For the Apple Cake:**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- **For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Cake Batter:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
2. **Combine and Bake:**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
3. **Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. **Frost the Cake:**
Once the cake has cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some cinnamon or chopped nuts on top.
#### Serving Suggestions
This apple cake with cream cheese frosting recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or simply a treat for yourself. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee, and you have the ultimate fall dessert that everyone will love.
#### Conclusion
This apple cake with cream cheese frosting is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy and warmth to your home. With its delightful flavors and inviting aroma, it’s sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of autumn bliss!