Name: Rustic Spiced Apple Cake with Golden Caramelized Edges and Tender Crumb
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt; 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp demerara or turbinado sugar (for topping)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rustic spiced apple cake is the kind of dessert that fills your kitchen with the warm, nostalgic aroma of cinnamon and baked fruit. It’s a celebration of simplicity and seasonal comfort—tender apple slices nestled into a soft, moist crumb, with edges that caramelize to a golden finish. Made with everyday pantry ingredients and ripe apples, this cake offers an old-fashioned charm that’s perfect for autumn afternoons, family gatherings, or cozy weekends. The balance of warm spices and sweet, slightly tart apples makes every bite rich in flavor and full of texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder and baking soda
Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice
Salt
Eggs
Granulated sugar and brown sugar
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Vanilla extract
Plain yogurt or sour cream
Lemon juice and zest (to brighten the flavor)
Optional: chopped nuts, raisins, or a dusting of powdered sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven. Set the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the apples. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them with a bit of lemon juice and a spoonful of sugar. Set aside.
Mix dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the spices.
Mix wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk eggs with both sugars until creamy. Stir in the oil (or melted butter), yogurt, vanilla, and lemon zest.
Combine wet and dry. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in apples. Gently fold in about two-thirds of the apple slices into the batter. Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Top and bake. Arrange the remaining apple slices in a spiral or rustic pattern over the batter. Sprinkle lightly with sugar for a caramelized crust. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8–10 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 50 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Nutty version: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
Fruit additions: Mix in chopped pears or dried cranberries for extra dimension.
Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
Vegan-friendly: Substitute flax eggs, plant-based yogurt, and oil.
Drizzle topping: Add a light glaze made of powdered sugar and cider or maple syrup.

Storage / Reheating

Room temperature: Store the cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

1. What kind of apples are best for this cake?

Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold up well during baking and add great flavor.

2. Can I leave the peel on the apples?

Yes, if the skins are thin. However, peeling ensures a smoother texture in each bite.

3. Why is my cake too dense?

Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh.

4. Can I make this in a loaf pan?

Yes, though baking time may need to be increased by 5–10 minutes. Keep an eye on the center for doneness.

5. Is it possible to make this cake without eggs?

Yes. Use a commercial egg replacer, applesauce, or flax eggs for a similar texture.

6. What can I serve with this cake?

It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

7. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

8. How do I get the caramelized edges?

Sprinkling a bit of sugar on the top before baking helps achieve golden, crisp edges.

9. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat for a denser, more rustic result.

10. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce both sugars slightly without compromising structure, but it may affect caramelization and flavor.

Conclusion

The Rustic Spiced Apple Cake with Golden Caramelized Edges and Tender Crumb is the kind of home-baked dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With its perfectly balanced spices, tender apple interior, and crisp, golden crust, it’s a nostalgic treat that’s as satisfying to bake as it is to eat. Serve it warm from the oven or enjoy a slice the next day with your morning coffee—it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that belongs in every baker’s rotation.