You’re going to flip over this honey apple cake. It’s like autumn decided to throw a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited. Perfect for those who love a moist, flavorful cake that’s not too sweet but just right.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of honey and apple creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Using oil instead of butter ensures the cake stays moist for days.
- The cinnamon and nutmeg add a warm spice that complements the apples beautifully.
- It’s incredibly versatile—serve it as a dessert, breakfast, or snack.
- The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease your 9-inch cake pan with a bit of oil or butter, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This not only combines them but also aerates the flour, leading to a lighter cake. Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients can make the cake even fluffier.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the oil, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. The honey might resist mixing at first, but keep at it until the mixture is smooth. This is the base of your cake’s moisture and sweetness.
Fold in Apples
Gently fold the diced apples into the wet mixture. This ensures every bite of cake has a bit of apple. Tip: For extra texture, leave the apple pieces a bit chunky.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and spring back when lightly touched. Tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra moist cake, try substituting half the oil with applesauce. This not only adds moisture but also intensifies the apple flavor. If you’re a fan of nuts, walnuts or pecans make a great addition, adding crunch and depth. For a more decadent version, drizzle the cooled cake with caramel sauce or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Remember, the quality of your honey will greatly affect the cake’s flavor, so opt for a good-quality, flavorful honey.
Recipe Variations
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
- Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical vibe.
- Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Use pear instead of apple for a different but equally delicious fruit cake.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Absolutely! Maple syrup can be a great substitute for honey, offering a different but equally delicious flavor profile. Just keep in mind that maple syrup is slightly thinner than honey, so you might need to adjust the amount slightly to achieve the same sweetness level.
How do I store the cake?
This cake keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days when covered tightly. For longer storage, wrap it well and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and ensure your honey is vegan or substitute with agave syrup. The cake might be slightly denser but still delicious.
Summary
This honey apple cake is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of honey with the tartness of apples, all wrapped up in a moist, spiced cake. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite.
