Chunky Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Transform your kitchen into a cozy autumn haven with this mouthwatering Chunky Apple Cake that promises to delight your senses. Moreover, this recipe combines the warmth of fall spices with the richness of cream cheese frosting, creating a dessert that's both comforting and indulgent.

Imagine a cake so moist and packed with chunky apple pieces that each bite tells a story of homemade goodness. Additionally, this simple layer cake brings together the best of seasonal baking in one irresistible dessert.

Chunky Apple Cake: A Harvest of Flavor in Every Slice

This Chunky Apple Cake isn't just a dessert it's a celebration of autumn's bounty. Furthermore, the combination of tender apples, warm spices, and creamy frosting creates a delectable treat that will become an instant family favorite.

Serving Suggestions:

Elevate your Chunky Apple Cake with these delightful pairings:

• Vanilla bean ice cream
• Warm caramel sauce
• Whipped cream
• Chopped nuts
• Cinnamon-spiced coffee

Pro Tips for Cake Perfection:

Apple Selection: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.

Chopping Technique: Cut apples into uniform chunks to ensure even distribution and consistent baking.

Spice Balance: The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, aromatic flavor profile.

Mixing Magic: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender and moist.

Frosting Finesse: Let the cake cool completely before applying cream cheese frosting.

Chunky Apple Cake Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 25 minutes
• Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling time: 1 hour
• Total time: Approximately 2 hours
• Servings: 12-16
• Equipment: 9x13 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Carefully grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside this dry ingredient mixture that will provide the cake's perfect spiced foundation.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and vegetable oil together until well combined. Gradually add sugar and vanilla, mixing until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly lighter in color.
4. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick and rich with spices.
5. Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using). Ensure the apple chunks are evenly distributed throughout the batter for maximum flavor in every slice.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to create a smooth, level surface that will bake evenly.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
8. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
9. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
10. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top, creating a luscious, creamy layer.

Serving and Storage:

Serve your Chunky Apple Cake chilled or at room temperature. This versatile dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

Storage Tips:

• Store in an airtight container
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days
• Bring to room temperature before serving
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months (without frosting)

Whether you're celebrating autumn's arrival or simply craving a slice of homemade comfort, this Chunky Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting promises to be the star of any dessert table. Each bite combines the rustic charm of fresh apples with the luxurious smoothness of cream cheese frosting a true culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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