Dessert

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

ByVictor Layne January 5, 2026January 5, 2026

Introduction

This fresh apple cake is a delightful treat that combines tender, spiced cake with juicy grated apples and a creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a comforting dessert that your whole family will love.

A close-up of a slice of layered cake on a white plate sitting on a white marbled surface. The cake has three layers: the bottom and top layers are dense and golden brown with visible small chunks of apple, while the middle layer is thick and creamy with a smooth texture. The top of the cake is decorated with a thick, swirled layer of pale cream frosting. The lighting shows the moist texture and details of the cake clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups grated apples
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prepare for the batter.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts, if using, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into pieces and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, peel the apples before grating. You can also substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free option.
If you prefer a spicier cake, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients.
Grate apples just before mixing to prevent them from browning.

Storage

Store the frosted apple cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake layer wrapped tightly for up to 2 months and frost it after thawing.

How to Serve

The image shows one slice of carrot cake on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has two thick layers of moist brown sponge with visible small bits of carrot and nuts inside. Between and on top of the sponge layers is a creamy white frosting with a smooth, slightly swirled texture. The top frosting layer has soft, wavy peaks made with a piping technique, adding detail and height to the slice. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, crunchy and tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji work well to maintain texture and add brightness to the cake.

How do I prevent the frosting from getting too soft?

Make sure the cream cheese and butter are well chilled before mixing, and keep the frosted cake refrigerated. If the frosting softens, chill the cake briefly before serving.