By Emmett Hickle 
Exact Info: Small apple cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that features tender cake layered with chunks of sweet apples and a warm hint of cinnamon, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
Apple cakes come in various forms, but the small apple cake stands out for its simplicity and ability to pack a punch of flavor in a petite package. This cake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a wonderful way to showcase fresh apples, particularly during the fall season when apples are at their peak.
What You Need for a Small Apple Cake Recipe
To make a small apple cake, you’ll need fresh ingredients and a few essential kitchen tools. Below is a list of ingredients typically required for creating this mouthwatering dessert:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Apples (peeled and diced) | 2 medium |
| Optional (Nuts) | ½ cup (chopped walnuts or pecans) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a small apple cake is straightforward. Here’s how to bring this delicious dessert to life:
-
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a small cake pan by greasing it with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients: In anOther bowl, mix the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
-
Combine Everything: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using.
-
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
For those who keep an eye on their dietary intake, here are the estimated nutrition facts per slice (assuming 8 slices) of small apple cake:
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 80mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 2g |
Tips for the Perfect Small Apple Cake
-
Choosing Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for added depth of flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith and Fuji complement each other well.
-
Grating Apples: For extra moisture, consider grating one of the apples instead of dicing them. This will also add a lovely texture to the cake.
-
Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
-
Serving Suggestions: This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
-
Add a Glaze: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can elevate the flavor and presentation of your small apple cake. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.
Variations of Small Apple Cake
Experimenting with the base recipe can yield delicious variations:
- Spiced Small Apple Cake: Add nutmeg or allspice for a spicier twist.
- Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the cake before serving.
- Chocolate Chip Apple Cake: Stir in chocolate chips for a decadent addition to this classic dessert.
FAQ
Q: Can I use other fruits in this cake?
A: Absolutely! Pears and peaches work well as substitutes for apples, creating a unique flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work fine, although you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly.
Q: Is it necessary to peel the apples?
A: While you can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients, peeled apples tend to blend into the cake better.
Q: Can I bake this as muffins instead of a cake?
A: Yes, the batter works wonderfully as muffins! Fill the cupcake liners and reduce baking time to about 18-20 minutes.
For More Recipes
Looking for more delicious apple recipes or creative twists to desserts? Check out Baking Mischief for a delightful take on apple cake, and explore other options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re enjoying it with a hot cup of coffee or sharing it at a family gathering, a small apple cake is sure to brighten anyone’s day. Happy baking!
