Easy Apple Cake: 5-Minute Prep

When time is short but the craving for a comforting, homemade dessert is real, our Easy Apple Cake is the perfect solution. With only 5 minutes of prep time, a handful of pantry staples, and juicy diced apples, this cake delivers a warm, cinnamon-spiced delight that’s perfect for any season—especially fall. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or whipping up a quick treat for family night, this moist and flavorful apple cake will impress without the stress.

🍎 Ingredients for the Easy Apple Cake

Here’s everything you need to create this quick apple cake recipe that never fails.

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Apple Cake

1. Preheat the Oven for Perfect Baking

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by either greasing it generously or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking. This will prevent sticking and ensure the cake keeps its structure when served.

2. Combine All Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp salt

Mix until the dry ingredients are fully combined and evenly distributed. The cinnamon not only adds warmth but enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately

In a second bowl, combine the wet ingredients:

• 3 large eggs (lightly beaten)

• 1 cup vegetable oil (or substitute with melted butter for a richer flavor)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Whisk until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. This mixture helps create a moist and tender crumb once baked.

4. Create the Cake Batter

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir the mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The batter will be thick—this is expected and ideal for supporting the weight of the apples.

Then, fold in the 3 cups of diced apples. Choose firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture. If desired, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans at this stage for a nutty crunch and deeper flavor profile.

5. Transfer to Baking Pan and Bake

Spoon the thick batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Place it in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no raw batter.

6. Let It Cool and Add Final Touches

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents overbaking from residual heat and makes slicing easier.

Dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.