Why You’ll Love This Apple Walnut Cake Recipe
If you love a moist, flavorful cake, you’re going to adore this Apple Walnut Cake recipe.
The combination of fresh apples and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful texture that keeps every bite interesting. I can’t resist the warm aroma that fills my kitchen while it bakes.
Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a casual get-together with friends.
The sweetness from the apples balances beautifully with the nutty flavor of the walnuts.
Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It’s simply irresistible!
Ingredients of Apple Walnut Cake
When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference, and this Apple Walnut Cake is no exception. If you’re ready to whip up something that not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with a cozy aroma, you’re in the right place.
Let’s plunge into the good stuff—the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious cake happen.
Ingredients for Apple Walnut Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 2 cups sugar
- 3 eggs (room temperature)
- 3 golden delicious apples (peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
- 3 tablespoons apple brandy
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup cold caramel
Now, let’s talk about some considerations regarding these ingredients.
First off, using fresh, crunchy apples is key—Golden Delicious are great, but feel free to mix in some Granny Smith for a little tartness.
And those walnuts? They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you could swap them out for pecans or even leave them out entirely. Just remember, the more you personalize it, the more it becomes your own.
Oh, and that apple brandy? It’s like a secret weapon that adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t replicate. Don’t skip it if you can help it.
Just imagine that warm, spiced cake coming out of the oven, ready to be devoured. What could be better?
How to Make Apple Walnut Cake
When it comes to making your Apple Walnut Cake, the first thing you’ll want to do is preheat that oven to a cozy 325°F. While it’s warming up, grab your two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them really well, then sprinkle in some flour. A little tip here: lining the bottom with waxed or parchment paper can save you from the nightmare of your cake sticking. No one wants a half-cake left clinging to the pan, right?
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. In a medium bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt. This is the dry dream team that will give your cake structure and flavor.
Next, it’s time to bring some life into our batter. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups of vegetable oil with 2 cups of sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes until it’s all smooth and creamy. It’s like a hug for your taste buds.
Now, crack those 3 room-temperature eggs in, one at a time, and beat until everything is light and fluffy—about 1 or 2 minutes should do the trick. Then, it’s showtime for your dry ingredients. Add them in thirds, mixing well after each addition. You’ll notice the batter getting thick and dough-like, which is just what you want.
Now, using a spoon that you probably should have licked clean already, gently fold in the diced apples—don’t forget about those 3 golden delicious apples that you peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces—1 cup of coarsely chopped walnuts, and 3 tablespoons of apple brandy. Just a gentle stir, you don’t want to overmix it.
Pour that glorious batter evenly into your prepared pans and slide them into the oven. Bake for about 44 to 55 minutes, but keep your eye on the clock. You’ll know it’s ready when a cake tester comes out clean.
Once they’re done, let them rest in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, while you’re waiting, let’s whip up the frosting. In another bowl, mix 16 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened butter until smooth—about 3 minutes should do it.
Gradually add in 1 cup of cold caramel, mixing until it’s all incorporated. Once your cakes are cool, layer them with that creamy goodness, and let the aroma of your Apple Walnut Cake fill your home. Seriously, is there anything better than the smell of fresh cake? Enjoy every slice.
Apple Walnut Cake Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic Apple Walnut Cake, it’s fun to explore some substitutions and variations to make it your own.
You might swap all-purpose flour for almond flour for a gluten-free option or use brown sugar instead of white for a richer flavor.
If you prefer, add dried cranberries or raisins along with the apples for extra sweetness.
Chopped pecans can replace walnuts if you’re feeling adventurous.
For a twist, try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger.
Don’t forget, you can also experiment with different types of apples to discover your favorite flavor profile!
Happy baking!
What to Serve with Apple Walnut Cake
A delightful slice of Apple Walnut Cake pairs beautifully with several accompaniments that can elevate your dessert experience.
I love serving it with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which adds a creamy contrast to the cake’s warmth. Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top enhances its sweetness and complements the apples perfectly.
For a touch of sophistication, I often pair it with a cup of spiced chai or a rich coffee, which balances the flavors beautifully.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top for that extra crunch! Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Apple Walnut Cake turns out perfectly, I recommend measuring your ingredients carefully, especially the flour, as too much can lead to a dense texture.
Don’t skip the apple brandy; it adds a delightful depth of flavor. If you prefer a nuttier taste, toasting the walnuts before adding them can elevate your cake.
When mixing, avoid overbeating the batter to maintain a light, fluffy texture. Finally, let the cake cool completely before frosting—it prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting.
Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite spices or additional fruits!