This apple cake is super simple to make and has that cozy vibe you want when the weather’s turning cooler. It’s got a nice balance of sweet and tart apples and a little hint of cinnamon that just feels right for fall. Also, it’s not one of those fussy cakes that need a million steps or weird ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease the cake pan with some butter or oil, whatever’s handy. I usually just rub a little with a paper towel.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. It’s kind of a dry mix but gets better soon.
In another bowl, beat the eggs with the oil and vanilla. This part always feels a little messy but it works out fine.
Pour the wet stuff into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Lumps are okay here, don’t overdo it.
Fold in the sliced apples gently so they’re spread out but not smashed. The apples give the cake some texture and moisture, which is nice.
Pour the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean-ish. Oven times vary, so keep an eye on it after 40 minutes.
Let the cake cool in the pan for a bit before turning it out onto a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy or just want a little extra sweetness.
Notes
This cake is really perfect for fall afternoons with a cup of something warm. It keeps okay for a couple days but best eaten fresh. Leftovers can be warmed up slightly and still taste good.