Apple Cream Cake

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or a similar-sized pan) to ensure the cake comes out easily after baking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for extra ease.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer or 5 minutes by hand.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 5: Incorporate the Sour Cream

Next, add the sour cream (or plain yogurt) to the butter mixture. Mix until smooth. The sour cream helps keep the cake moist and adds a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the sweet apples.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a denser cake.

Step 7: Add the Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apples. You can use any variety of apples you like, but firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji tend to hold up well in baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly firm to the touch.

Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Cream Filling

While your cake is cooling, whip up the creamy filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, slice it in half horizontally to create two layers (this step is optional but adds a nice touch). Spread the cream filling evenly between the two layers. You can also spread a thin layer of the cream on top for a smoother finish, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

For an extra touch, garnish the top of your cake with a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even some additional chopped apples for a fresh look. Slice and serve!

Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, use fresh, firm apples that hold up well during baking. Softer apples may break down too much and make the cake soggy.
• Mix Slowly: Be sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they’re combined. Over-mixing can make the cake dense and tough.
• Customize the Cream: Feel free to experiment with the cream filling by adding a little cream cheese for a richer flavor or mixing in cinnamon for a spiced twist.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

• Perfect Texture: The combination of apples, sour cream, and butter creates a cake that is moist, tender, and fluffy—the perfect foundation for the sweet, creamy filling.
• Versatile: Apple cream cake can be served at any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks to fall-themed parties. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for the recipe!
• Deliciously Cozy: The warmth of the apples paired with the creamy filling makes this cake feel like the ultimate cozy comfort food, perfect for any time of year.

Final Thoughts:

Apple Cream Cake is a deliciously moist dessert that combines the flavors of fresh apples, creaminess, and a hint of cinnamon. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just getting started, this cake is an easy and satisfying treat that everyone will enjoy. It’s sure to become a staple in your baking rotation, especially when you need something that’s both impressive and easy to make!

So go ahead—gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy making a cake that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds dance. Happy baking!