This classic apple walnut cake has been a family staple for years, beloved for its tender crumb and the delightful combination of sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and warming cinnamon. It’s a cozy, comforting dessert that fills your kitchen with the aroma of fall. The cake is moist and flavorful, thanks to the generous chunks of fresh apples, while the walnuts add a pleasant crunch. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it the ultimate treat for any occasion. Whether served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or on its own, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household too.
Why You’ll Love This:
This apple walnut cake is the perfect blend of texture and flavor—sweet, juicy apples, crunchy walnuts, and a soft, moist cake that melts in your mouth. The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a warm and comforting flavor that’s hard to resist, making this cake ideal for those who love homey, nostalgic desserts. It’s easy to make, with simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry. The versatility of this cake also means it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack with tea or coffee. Plus, the use of fresh apples makes it feel both light and indulgent, appealing to a wide range of taste buds.
Perfect Occasion:
This apple walnut cake is the perfect choice for casual family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you want to serve a dessert that feels warm and inviting. It’s a great option for fall or winter, when the comforting combination of apples, cinnamon, and walnuts can really shine. However, it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round, whether as a simple weeknight treat or as the star of your dessert table at a special event. It’s also a wonderful option for potlucks and bake sales, as it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
Decoration Tips:
For a simple yet elegant finish, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar once it has cooled. If you want to add a bit more flair, drizzle a light glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk over the top for a sweet touch. You can also scatter some extra chopped walnuts or apple slices on top for decoration. For a more indulgent variation, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to elevate the dessert even further. No matter how you choose to present it, this cake looks and tastes beautifully rustic.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1.5 cups sugar (use 1 cup if you prefer less sweetness)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups flour (if using medium eggs, 2.5 cups may be sufficient)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel and dice the apples into small cubes.
- Toss the diced apples with the lemon juice, half of the sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Set aside to let the flavors blend.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the remaining sugar until the mixture turns pale and fluffy.
- Add the vegetable oil and continue to mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the baking powder, vanilla, salt, and flour to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Combine and Bake:
- Gently fold the apple-walnut mixture into the batter using a spatula, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured baking pan (22x32 cm).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, which should take around 35-45 minutes, depending on your oven and pan size. Be sure to keep an eye on it, as baking times may vary.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing and serving.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature. For an extra indulgence, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy!