Apple Dapple Cake Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of Apple Dapple Cake baking in the oven. Sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples combined with a soft, moist cake batter create a dessert that tastes like autumn on a plate.

I discovered this recipe from an old family friend, who insisted that the secret lay in its rich apple flavor and caramel glaze. Now, it’s my go-to cake when I want to impress guests or bring a taste of cozy warmth to my table. [IMAGE]

Let’s dive into why you’ll love this Apple Dapple Cake and get baking!

Why You'll Love This Apple Dapple Cake

If you’re a fan of fall flavors, this Apple Dapple Cake is about to become your new favorite treat. Each bite is loaded with chunks of sweet, juicy apple, perfectly complemented by a hint of cinnamon and a drizzle of warm caramel.

One of the best things about this cake is how easy it is to make. With no need for fancy equipment, it comes together in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze – perfect for busy bakers or anyone looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Not only is this cake packed with flavor, but it's also incredibly moist. Thanks to the natural juices from the apples and a hint of oil in the batter, each slice stays tender and fresh even days after baking.

And let’s not forget the caramel glaze! A quick, stovetop caramel sauce is poured over the cake after baking, seeping into every crevice and adding an extra layer of decadence. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch it disappear in seconds.

With its irresistible flavors and easy preparation, this Apple Dapple Cake will quickly earn a top spot in your recipe collection.

Ingredients Notes

This Apple Dapple Cake shines thanks to a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each element contributes to the cake's irresistible texture and flavor, making it an ideal dessert for fall gatherings or a cozy weekend treat.

• Apples: The star of the show! Choose firm, sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture. These varieties hold up well during baking, adding just the right amount of juiciness without making the cake soggy.
• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of the cake. Sifted all-purpose flour provides a soft, tender crumb, but you can also try a 50-50 mix with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser, nutty flavor.
• Sugar: We’ll use a combination of white and brown sugar. The white sugar keeps the cake light and sweet, while brown sugar adds a hint of molasses that pairs beautifully with the apples and spices.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices bring out the apple's natural sweetness and give the cake its signature fall flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of allspice or clove if you love extra warmth!
• Oil: A touch of oil in the batter makes the cake moist and tender, and it stays that way for days. You can use vegetable oil, or even try a mild-flavored olive oil for added richness.

If you have a 9x13-inch pan on hand, you’re all set for baking. The larger surface area allows the cake to bake evenly, and it’s perfect for pouring the caramel glaze over the top!

How To Make This Apple Dapple Cake

Creating this Apple Dapple Cake is as easy as mixing up the batter, folding in the apples, and baking until golden. Here’s how to make it step-by-step.

1. Prep your ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Peel and chop your apples into small, even pieces, about ½-inch in size. This helps them distribute evenly in the batter.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sifting helps to create a lighter cake texture, and ensures that the spices and leavening agent are evenly incorporated.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, white and brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well-blended. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined – overmixing can make the cake dense.
4. Fold in the apples: Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter, being careful not to overmix. The apples will release some juice as they bake, adding extra moisture to the cake.
5. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
6. Make the caramel glaze: While the cake cools slightly, prepare the caramel glaze by melting butter, brown sugar, and a splash of milk in a small saucepan. Stir until smooth and bubbling, then pour the warm glaze over the cake, letting it soak in.

This cake is best enjoyed warm, with a rich caramel glaze soaked into every slice.

Storage Options

This Apple Dapple Cake keeps well, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it over several days.

• Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The glaze will help keep it moist, and the flavor only deepens as it sits.
• Refrigerator: If you want it to last a bit longer, transfer the cake to the refrigerator after the second day. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days when properly covered.
• Freezing: This cake also freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
• Reheating: For that fresh-from-the-oven experience, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warm and fragrant.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Apple Dapple Cake is how versatile it can be. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Nutty Twist: Add a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a bit of crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples and caramel glaze.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help with the texture, or add a teaspoon if your blend doesn’t already include it.
• Spice It Up: Amp up the fall flavors by adding a teaspoon of allspice, a pinch of ground cloves, or even a bit of ginger. The warm spices add complexity to the cake.
• Lower Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar in the cake batter by about ¼ cup. The natural sweetness of the apples and the caramel glaze will still keep it delicious.
• Add a Drizzle: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle some homemade caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt over each slice just before serving.

Experiment with these variations and make this Apple Dapple Cake uniquely yours! Whether enjoyed as a simple weeknight dessert or dressed up for a special occasion, this cake is sure to be a hit.

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