Apple Dapple Cake is the perfect cozy dessert that brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the crunch of nuts. This moist, flavorful cake is topped with a rich brown sugar glaze, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the fall season, the holidays, or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, this cake will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of tender apples and a hint of spice is sure to leave everyone reaching for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love making this Apple Dapple Cake because it’s the epitome of comfort food. The combination of fresh apples, cinnamon, and nuts gives it a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the cooler months. The addition of a brown sugar glaze adds a delicious touch of sweetness that takes the cake to the next level. It’s so easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients that I often have on hand. Plus, it fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma while baking! This cake is always a hit at gatherings, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients
For the cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the glaze:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the vegetable oil. Mix until just combined.
Add Apples and Nuts:
Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (or pecans), ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Make the Glaze:
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by combining the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Glaze the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the warm glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake into squares and serve. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 12 slices, perfect for serving at a gathering or enjoying throughout the week.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
Apple Variations: You can switch up the types of apples used based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast, while Fuji or Honeycrisp apples bring extra sweetness.
Nut Substitutes: While walnuts or pecans are traditional, feel free to use almonds, hazelnuts, or even skip the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Add-Ins: If you like, you can fold in other mix-ins like raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips to add extra texture and flavor.
Glaze Modifications: For a richer glaze, try adding a touch of cinnamon or apple cider for more depth.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Once the cake has cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Reheating: To enjoy this cake warm, simply microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds, or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
Can I make Apple Dapple Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead! You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve as it sits, making it even better the next day.
Can I use frozen apples in the cake?
Fresh apples are best for this recipe, but if you’re using frozen apples, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding to the batter to avoid extra moisture.
How do I know when the cake is done?
To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready to be removed from the oven.
Can I freeze Apple Dapple Cake?
Yes! This cake freezes beautifully. Simply wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave the cake at room temperature for a few hours or microwave individual slices.
Can I make this cake without the glaze?
Absolutely! The cake itself is delicious without the glaze, so if you prefer a simpler dessert or want to cut down on sweetness, feel free to skip it.
Conclusion
Apple Dapple Cake is one of those recipes that brings comfort and joy with every bite. It’s packed with apples, spices, and nuts, topped with a heavenly brown sugar glaze, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, enjoying an afternoon tea, or just indulging in a slice of something homemade, this cake never fails to impress. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a new favorite in your kitchen!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Apple Dapple Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Dapple Cake is a delicious, comforting dessert made with fresh apples, walnuts or pecans, and a rich cinnamon-spiced batter. Topped with a sweet brown sugar glaze, this moist cake is perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season or the holidays. Easy to make and irresistibly fragrant, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and crunchy nuts creates a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for dessert, afternoon tea, or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
For the cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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
For the glaze:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the vegetable oil. Mix until just combined.
- Add Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (or pecans).
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir constantly and bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the warm glaze evenly over the top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into squares and serve warm.
Notes
Apple Variations: Choose from Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp apples for different flavor profiles. Granny Smith adds a tart contrast, while Fuji and Honeycrisp are sweeter.
Nut Substitutes: Walnuts or pecans are traditional, but feel free to use almonds, hazelnuts, or skip the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate raisins, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal per serving
