Ultimate Apple Pie Cake

Irresistible Apple Pie Cake: The Perfect Fusion of Two Classic Desserts

Imagine the comforting warmth of a classic apple pie seamlessly blended with the tender crumb of a moist cake. That’s precisely what our incredible apple pie cake delivers! This delightful creation offers a soft, buttery cake texture, generously studded throughout with a rich, spiced apple pie filling, all crowned with a golden, streusel-like crumb topping. It’s a surprisingly easy cake recipe that elevates a beloved classic into an extraordinary dessert, perfect for any occasion.

While traditional apple pie might evoke images of crisp autumn days or sunny summer picnics, this versatile apple pie cake defies seasonal boundaries. Its comforting flavors and delightful textures make it a fitting indulgence any time of the year. Whether you’re seeking a cozy winter treat, a refreshing spring dessert, or a comforting fall classic, this cake is always a welcome addition to the table.

This recipe truly embodies the best elements of several beloved apple desserts. It captures the juicy, spiced fruit filling of an apple pie, the tender, moist cake base reminiscent of a rich pound cake, and the irresistible crunchy topping often found in apple crisps or cobblers. It’s a masterful fusion, rolling all these delightful qualities into one spectacular dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Adore This Apple Pie Cake Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Don’t let its impressive appearance fool you; this apple pie cake is incredibly simple to create. By utilizing a yellow cake mix as its foundational element, we significantly streamline the baking process, saving you time and effort without compromising on taste or quality. It’s an ideal recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick yet satisfying dessert.
• Aromatic Bliss: As this delectable cake bakes, your kitchen will be enveloped in the most inviting aroma of warm apples and fragrant spices. The delightful scent alone is enough to draw everyone in, creating an atmosphere of coziness and anticipation. Be prepared for compliments – and possibly curious neighbors knocking at your door!
• Three-Layer Simplicity: Despite its complex flavor profile, this recipe is designed with ease in mind, featuring just three distinct and straightforward layers: the moist cake base, the luscious apple filling, and the crunchy streusel topping. Each component comes together seamlessly, making the entire baking process a true “piece of cake!”
• Crowd-Pleasing Perfection: Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a casual dinner party, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this apple pie cake is guaranteed to be a hit. Its familiar flavors and comforting appeal make it universally loved by all ages, ensuring there are never any leftovers.
• Seasonal Versatility: Unlike traditional apple pies often reserved for fall, this cake is perfect year-round. Enjoy it with fresh apples in autumn, or as a bright, comforting dessert during colder months. It’s a timeless treat that brings joy regardless of the season.

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Crafting this incredible apple pie cake begins with selecting quality ingredients. Even with the convenience of a cake mix, the fresh apples and homemade streusel truly elevate this dessert to gourmet status. Below is a visual guide to the main components you’ll need.

For the precise quantities and a complete list of all ingredients, please refer to the detailed recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post. We’ll be combining pantry staples with fresh produce to create a truly unforgettable dessert.

Recipe Walkthrough: Detailed Instructions

This section provides a clear, step-by-step overview of how to bring your apple pie cake to life. For comprehensive and detailed instructions, including exact measurements and cooking tips, make sure to consult the full recipe card at the very end of this article. Let’s get baking!

• Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat these ingredients together on medium speed for precisely two minutes using the paddle attachment until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This ensures a light and airy cake base.
• Step 2: Transfer to Baking Dish. Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into a greased 13×9 inch baking dish. Ensure the dish is thoroughly greased to prevent sticking and allow for easy removal later.
• Step 3: Apple Preparation. Begin by carefully peeling the skin off your apples. Then, core each apple to remove the seeds and tough center. Finally, chop the apples into uniform, bite-sized chunks. Consistency in size helps them cook evenly.
• Step 4: Season the Apples. Transfer the chopped apple chunks to a separate mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic apple pie spice. Toss everything together gently until all the apple pieces are thoroughly coated with the delicious spice mixture. The lemon juice helps prevent browning and adds a bright note.

• Step 5: Layer the Apples. Carefully spread the seasoned apple chunks in an even layer over the top of the yellow cake batter in your baking dish. Make sure they are distributed uniformly so every slice gets a generous portion of apple filling.
• Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping. In a clean mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together. Then, add the cold, unsalted butter, cutting it into the flour mixture with a pastry blender or your fingertips until crumbly, resembling coarse breadcrumbs. This creates the signature streusel texture.
• Step 7: Apply the Streusel. Evenly sprinkle the prepared streusel topping over the layer of apple chunks in the baking dish. Ensure a consistent coverage for that perfect golden, crunchy crust.
• Step 8: Bake and Finish. Place the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with no more than two moist crumbs attached. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before dusting generously with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Expert Tip: The Secret to Perfect Apple Flavor! To achieve a wonderfully balanced flavor profile that truly delights your palate, we highly recommend using a combination of both tart apples, such as Granny Smith, and sweet apples, like Honeycrisp. This blend offers a dynamic interplay of sweetness and acidity, elevating the overall taste of your apple pie cake. Other great tart options include Braeburn or Pink Lady, while Gala or Fuji can complement the sweet side.

Customize Your Creation: Recipe Variations and Substitute Ideas

One of the joys of baking is the freedom to personalize your recipes. This apple pie cake is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Spice It Up: If you don’t have a pre-made apple pie spice blend on hand, creating your own is simple! A delightful homemade alternative can be crafted by combining ground cinnamon, a dash of nutmeg, and a hint of allspice. For an extra kick, consider adding a tiny pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to your apple mixture.
• A Touch of Vanilla: While not strictly necessary, adding a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to your apple chunks along with the lemon juice and sugar can enhance the overall warmth and depth of flavor. It complements the apple and spice notes beautifully.
• Unconventional Cake Liquid: Some bakers enjoy experimenting with different liquids in their cake mixes. Instead of water, you could try using a carbonated beverage like ginger ale, club soda, or even a cream soda. The carbonation can sometimes contribute to a lighter cake texture, and certain sodas can add subtle flavor notes.
• Nutty Streusel: For an added layer of texture and flavor, incorporate half a cup of finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into your streusel topping mixture. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them will deepen their flavor even further.
• Caramel Swirl: For an even richer dessert, gently swirl a few tablespoons of warm caramel sauce into the apple layer before adding the streusel. Or, for a beautiful presentation, drizzle caramel over the baked and cooled cake before serving.
• Cream Cheese Layer: For a decadent twist, consider adding a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese mixture over the cake batter before adding the apples. This adds a tangy, creamy element that beautifully balances the sweetness of the apples and cake.

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Essential Baking Tools: Equipment You’ll Need

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Having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking experience. For this apple pie cake, you won’t need anything overly specialized, but these items will ensure smooth and efficient preparation. All the equipment I used in developing this recipe is conveniently listed in the comprehensive recipe card below.

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Essential for quickly and thoroughly combining the cake batter ingredients, ensuring a smooth, lump-free base.
• 13×9 Inch Baking Dish: The standard size for this type of sheet cake, allowing for even baking and easy slicing. A glass or ceramic dish works beautifully.
• Apple Corer: A handy tool for swiftly removing the core from your apples, saving time and effort during prep.
• Apple Peeler: While you can use a knife, a dedicated peeler makes quick work of removing apple skins, ensuring a smooth texture in your filling.
• Mixing Bowls: Several bowls are useful for separating and combining the cake batter, apple filling, and streusel topping ingredients. Glass bowls are durable and easy to clean.
• Pastry Blender (Optional, but Recommended): For cutting butter into the flour mixture for the streusel, a pastry blender makes the job much easier and yields consistent crumbs. If you don’t have one, your fingertips will work too.

Explore More Delightful Desserts

If you loved this Apple Pie Cake, you’re sure to enjoy these other fantastic recipes from our collection. From classic comforts to unique twists, there’s always something new to bake!

You might also enjoy these other fantastic dessert ideas:

• Perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Old Fashioned Chess Pie
• Classic Hummingbird Cake Recipe
• Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie

Storing Your Delicious Apple Pie Cake Leftovers

Ensuring your delicious apple pie cake stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible is key. Proper storage will allow you to enjoy this delightful treat for days to come.

Once the Apple Pie Cake has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Store this container in the refrigerator, where the cake will remain fresh and delicious for up to 1 week. This helps maintain its moisture and prevents any spoilage.

For longer preservation, this cake freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled, you can slice the cake into individual portions or freeze it whole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Stored properly, the apple pie cake will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature, and warm slightly if desired.

Mel’s Kitchen Notes: Serving Suggestions & Final Touches

For the ultimate indulgence, serve your apple pie cake warmed slightly. A gentle reheat in the microwave or oven will soften the cake and enhance the aromatic spices. Top each slice with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and a luscious drizzle of warm caramel sauce. The combination of warm cake, cold ice cream, and sweet caramel creates a truly heavenly experience. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon also makes a fantastic addition!

Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs About Apple Pie Cake

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Apple Pie Cake Recipe

Equipment

• 1 Stand Mixer or hand mixer
• 1 13×9 Baking Dish
• 1 Apple Corer
• 1 Apple Peeler
• 1 Glass Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 1 (13.5 Ounce) Box Yellow Cake Mix
• 1 Cup Water
• ½ Cup Vegetable Oil
• 3 Large Eggs
• For the Apple Filling:
• 2 Granny Smith Apples (Tart)
• 2 Honey Crisp Apples (Sweet)
• 2 teaspoons Apple Pie Spice
• 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
• 3 Tablespoons Granulated Sugar
• For the Streusel Topping:
• ¾ Cup All Purpose Flour
• ½ Cup Light Brown Sugar
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ½ Cup Unsalted Butter (cold, cut into cubes)
• For Garnish:
• ¼ Cup Powdered Sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and large eggs. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
3. Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the greased baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom.
4. Peel, core, and cut the Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples into small, uniform chunks (about ½ to ¾ inch).
5. Add the chopped apple chunks to a mixing bowl with the apple pie spice, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Toss everything together until all the apple pieces are thoroughly coated.
6. Evenly layer the seasoned apple chunks over the top of the cake batter in the baking dish.
7. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and salt. Whisk briefly to combine.
8. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
9. Sprinkle this streusel topping evenly over the layer of apple chunks in the baking dish.
10. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with no more than 2-3 moist crumbs attached.
11. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
12. Once cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Notes

Nutrition