Name: Apple Dapple Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup light brown sugar (packed); 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups peeled and finely chopped tart apples (such as Granny Smith); 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

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Get ready to fall head over heels for Apple Dapple Cake, a moist, spice-kissed dream packed with tender apples and toasted nuts, then drenched in a buttery brown sugar glaze. This crowd-pleaser is pure homemade comfort, the sort of cake you find yourself sneaking bites of straight from the pan. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or treating yourself to a weekend indulgence, Apple Dapple Cake always hits the spot with its old-fashioned flavors and impossible-to-resist texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Apple Dapple Cake is in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients—each one brings something special to the table. From the warmth of the spices to the freshness of the apples and the crunch of the nuts, every element works together for an unforgettable bite.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
Baking soda: Gives the cake its lift—make sure it’s fresh for perfect results.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Ground cinnamon: Delivers classic cozy spice that complements the apples.
Ground nutmeg: A little goes a long way for extra depth and warmth.
Granulated sugar: Ensures sweetness and a light, fluffy cake texture.
Light brown sugar (packed): Adds caramel notes and extra moisture to the crumb.
Vegetable oil: Makes for an ultra-moist, tender cake that stays fresh for days.
Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with fragrant sweetness.
Peeled and finely chopped tart apples (such as Granny Smith): The star of the show—choose apples that hold their shape and provide bright flavor.
Chopped pecans or walnuts: Bring crunch and nutty goodness; toast them for even more flavor.

How to Make Apple Dapple Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly. This simple prep step makes sure your Apple Dapple Cake releases like a dream and provides crisp, golden edges every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Blending these dry ingredients creates a harmonious spice flavor and an even rise, ensuring no surprises in your cake’s texture.

Step 3: Combine Sugars and Oil

In a large bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vegetable oil until completely smooth and well blended. The oil ensures a luxuriously moist crumb, while the blend of sugars brings both depth and sweetness.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This step helps the batter emulsify, creating a rich base that will cradle all those glorious apples and nuts.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry

Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients to your sugar and oil mixture. Stir just until combined—overmixing can make the cake tough. This is where the magic of a tender, soft Apple Dapple Cake begins!

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently stir in the peeled, finely chopped tart apples and your choice of pecans or walnuts. The apples bring juicy pops of flavor, while the nuts add that irresistible crunch to every bite.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the thick, apple-studded batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

While the cake is baking, whip up the gooey glaze: In a small saucepan, combine butter, milk, and brown sugar, then bring to a low boil over medium heat, stirring for about 2 minutes. This rich glaze is what truly sets Apple Dapple Cake apart—don’t skip it!

Step 9: Glaze and Cool

When the cake comes out, immediately pour the bubbling hot glaze evenly over the top. It seeps into the cake as it cools, making every bite extra decadent. Let your masterpiece cool in the pan before slicing, so each piece stays as moist as can be.

How to Serve Apple Dapple Cake

Garnishes

Dress up your Apple Dapple Cake with a sprinkle of freshly chopped nuts over the top, a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, or, for a truly indulgent treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. These finishing touches add creamy, cold contrast and a lovely presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake alongside hot apple cider, fresh-brewed coffee, or even chai tea for the ultimate cozy dessert pairing. For a more decadent spread, offer a medley of fresh-cut fruit or crisp, tart berries to balance the cake’s sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Apple Dapple Cake into a showstopping trifle by layering cubes with whipped cream and caramel sauce in mason jars. Or, cut the cake into bite-sized squares and skewer them for a whimsical dessert platter. If you’re feeling festive, drizzle extra glaze on each plate before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Dapple Cake stays remarkably moist when covered tightly and stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container; it will hold its flavor and texture for up to a week.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole pan tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

If you love your Apple Dapple Cake warm, simply microwave slices for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a low oven (around 300°F) until gently heated. The glaze softens beautifully, and the aroma fills your kitchen all over again.

FAQs

What kind of apples work best for Apple Dapple Cake?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith are ideal—they hold their shape during baking and offer a pleasant tang that balances the cake’s sweetness.

Can I use a bundt pan instead of a 9×13-inch pan?

Absolutely! A bundt pan makes for a stunning presentation, though you may need to adjust the baking time. Keep an eye on the cake and test for doneness starting at 45 minutes.

Is it possible to make Apple Dapple Cake nut-free?

Yes, you can simply omit the nuts, or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a little extra texture without allergens.

Can I use melted butter instead of oil?

While melted butter adds lovely flavor, using oil is the secret to that extra-moist crumb Apple Dapple Cake is famous for. If you must substitute, expect a slightly denser texture.

Does the cake have to be glazed while hot?

Yes, for the best results! Pouring the glaze over the hot cake allows it to soak in perfectly, creating that signature sticky, luscious top layer.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something timeless, easy, and guaranteed to wow, this Apple Dapple Cake just might become your new go-to treat. Gather your apples, roll up your sleeves, and bake a little happiness—then enjoy every sweet, spiced bite!

Apple Dapple Cake Recipe

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4.5 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A moist and flavorful apple dapple cake that’s perfect for fall gatherings. This cake is loaded with tart apples, warm spices, and crunchy nuts, topped with a sweet glaze for the perfect finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
1 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Additional Ingredients:

3 cups peeled and finely chopped tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine and Bake: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, fold in apples and nuts. Pour into pan and bake for 45-50 minutes.
Prepare Glaze: In a saucepan, boil butter, milk, and brown sugar. Pour over the baked cake.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.