One Bowl Apple Cake Recipe: Effortless Fall Baking Bliss!

The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and the aroma of cinnamon is practically mandatory. Fall is here, and with it comes the undeniable craving for apple cake. But who wants to spend hours in the kitchen wrestling with multiple bowls and complicated steps? Not me! That’s why I’m sharing this incredibly easy and delicious one-bowl apple cake recipe. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, spontaneous gatherings, or simply when you need a comforting treat without the fuss.

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another apple cake recipe; it’s a game-changer. Here’s why it works so well:

• Simplicity: As the name suggests, everything comes together in one bowl. Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your cake!
• Moisture: The combination of oil and applesauce ensures a super moist cake that stays fresh for days (if it lasts that long!).
• Flavor: A generous amount of cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg perfectly complement the tartness of the apples, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile.
• Adaptability: This recipe is easily customizable. You can swap out different types of apples, add nuts or dried fruit, or even drizzle it with a simple glaze.
• Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is virtually foolproof. The instructions are clear and concise, guaranteeing success.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 4 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji)
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and applesauce to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. A few streaks of flour are okay.
4. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples (and nuts, if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
7. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving.
8. Optional Glaze: While the cake is cooling, you can prepare a simple glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk or apple cider. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Tips for Success

While this recipe is incredibly straightforward, here are a few tips to ensure baking perfection:

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry about a few streaks of flour.
• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp apples will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Start checking for doneness around 45 minutes.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: While not essential, using room temperature eggs can help the batter come together more smoothly.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking. You can also add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a more complex flavor.
• Add a Topping: Before baking, sprinkle the top of the cake with a mixture of cinnamon sugar or a streusel topping for added sweetness and texture.

Storage Instructions

This apple cake is best stored at room temperature in an airtight container. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Q: Can I use different types of apples?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, and Gala apples all work well. A combination of tart and sweet apples will create a more complex flavor.

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for binding.

Q: Can I reduce the amount of sugar?

A: You can reduce the sugar by up to ¼ cup without significantly affecting the texture of the cake. However, keep in mind that sugar contributes to both sweetness and moisture.

Q: Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

A: Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, raisins, or cranberries would all be delicious additions to this cake. Simply fold them into the batter along with the apples.

Q: Can I make this cake in a different sized pan?

A: While a 9×13 inch pan is recommended, you can also use a 9-inch square pan or a bundt pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This one-bowl apple cake recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious baking doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone who wants to enjoy a warm, comforting, and flavorful treat without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the effortless bliss of fall baking! Enjoy!