If you are searching for a comforting, moist, and irresistibly flavorful dessert, this Southern Apple Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender chunks of apples, a warm hint of cinnamon, and the crunchy surprise of pecans, this cake captures the very essence of Southern hospitality in every bite. It’s a perfect treat for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you want to bring a little sweetness and coziness into your kitchen. The combination of simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients creates a cake that’s hearty yet delicate, sweet yet subtly spiced, making it a timeless classic you’re sure to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the magic of this Southern Apple Cake Recipe starts with a set of straightforward ingredients that each play an important role. From the richness of vegetable oil to the deep flavors from brown sugar and warm cinnamon, every component adds a layer of texture, taste, or aroma that makes this cake truly special.
- Vegetable oil: Provides moisture and keeps the cake tender without overpowering flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s golden crust.
- Brown sugar: Brings a natural molasses flavor and deeper richness.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while contributing to the cake’s structure.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic essence.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake’s crumb, providing the necessary structure.
- Baking soda: Helps the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and strengthens the cake’s flavor.
- Cinnamon: Infuses warmth and that unmistakable Southern spice character.
- Apples (peeled and chopped): The star ingredient that lends freshness, juiciness, and texture.
- Chopped pecans: Add a delightful crunch and nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the apples.
How to Make Southern Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your cake doesn’t stick and comes out with clean edges, ready to impress.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until you get a smooth and well-combined mixture. This step creates the foundation for a moist cake and helps dissolve the sugars for even sweetness.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Whisking these ingredients ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spice, so your cake bakes perfectly and tastes harmonious.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. The batter will be thick — this is exactly what you want! Don’t overmix; just fold until everything is barely combined to keep the cake tender.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Pecans
Gently fold in the peeled, chopped apples and chopped pecans until they are evenly spread throughout the batter. This step ensures that every bite is bursting with juicy apples and the satisfying crunch of pecans.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Pop it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will start filling your kitchen with that warm, inviting scent only a Southern Apple Cake Recipe can offer.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Cooling helps the cake set, making it easier to cut and enhancing the texture with every bite.
How to Serve Southern Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates this cake from everyday to extraordinary. For an extra layer of indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream brings a creamy contrast to the spiced apples and nuts.
Side Dishes
While this cake stands strong on its own, pairing it with a cup of hot chai tea, coffee, or spiced cider makes the perfect Southern afternoon treat. Fresh fruit on the side, like crisp pears or berries, can add a refreshing balance to each serving.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this Southern Apple Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or mini pans for personal servings at parties. Alternatively, top with toasted pecans and edible flowers for a festive presentation that’s sure to impress guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Southern Apple Cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. Make sure it’s airtight to preserve moisture and prevent the pecans from getting stale. If you live in a warmer climate, refrigeration is a good option to extend freshness.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven wrapped loosely with foil for 10 minutes. This revives the softness and warms the apples, making your Southern Apple Cake Recipe taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples. Just remember to choose apples that hold their shape well so the cake doesn’t become too mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure, or add a half teaspoon for best results.
Can I replace the vegetable oil with butter?
While you can, keep in mind that butter will make the cake slightly denser and give a richer flavor. Melt the butter and cool it before mixing with the wet ingredients to maintain the right batter consistency.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Overbaking can dry out the cake, so start checking around 50 minutes.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?
Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or even pecan halves work wonderfully. You can also toss in raisins or dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Apple Cake Recipe is a true treasure that brings warmth, flavor, and heartfelt Southern charm to your table. It’s easy enough to make any day yet impressive enough to serve for special occasions. I encourage you to try it soon—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved staple that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Southern Apple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Apple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for fall or any time of year. Packed with tender apples, crunchy pecans, and warm cinnamon, this classic cake combines rich vegetable oil and a blend of brown and granulated sugars for a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Baked to golden perfection in a 9×13-inch pan, it’s ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Add-ins
- 3 cups peeled and chopped apples
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The batter will be thick and slightly dense.
- Add Apples and Pecans: Gently fold in the peeled and chopped apples along with the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer to Pan: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared 9×13-inch pan, smoothing the top for uniform baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving to let it set and enhance its flavors.
Notes
- The apples should be peeled and chopped to ensure a tender texture in the cake.
- Use firm apple varieties such as Granny Smith or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- For added spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This cake freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
