If you have a soft spot for classic treats that balance sweet warmth and moist, tender crumb, then this Apple Pound Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite baking adventure. Imagine biting into a slice bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in a rich, buttery cake that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly comforting. This recipe combines simple ingredients in a way that transforms everyday apples and pantry staples into a cake that’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert. The texture is luxuriously dense but delightfully soft, and the flavors sing in every bite. You’ll love how the subtle spice and fruity notes make this Apple Pound Cake Recipe a standout at any gathering or cozy evening in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Pound Cake Recipe starts with simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its flavor, texture, and irresistible aroma. From creamy butter to fresh apples, every component enhances the overall experience of this classic cake.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect crumb to the pound cake.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly for a light yet dense texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice that complements the apples beautifully.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cake a rich, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the apples.
- 4 large eggs: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture for a luscious texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a comforting, aromatic depth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tang that balances sweetness.
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped: The star ingredient delivering juicy bursts of flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty undertones.
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional): Gives a pretty, sweet finish to the cake’s surface.
How to Make Apple Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan thoughtfully. This ensures your pound cake will release easily after baking and have beautifully crisp edges that contrast with the tender middle.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these together to distribute the baking powder and cinnamon evenly, which helps the cake rise consistently and delivers that signature spice in every bite.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is essential because incorporating air at this stage builds the texture that makes your Apple Pound Cake Recipe so delightfully soft.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
One at a time, add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and uniform. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra hint of warmth and fragrance.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients and mix just until everything is combined to avoid overworking the batter. This technique ensures your cake stays tender and moist.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts (If Using)
Gently fold the peeled, cored, and chopped apples into the batter, distributing them evenly without mashing. If you love a nutty contrast, now is the time to add the chopped walnuts or pecans, which bring delightful texture and flavor.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly to help the cake bake uniformly. Place it in the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. The top should turn a glorious golden brown, a perfect signal that your Apple Pound Cake Recipe is ready.
Step 8: Cool and Finish
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes to set up slightly before gently transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. A final dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of sweetness and charm before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Apple Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Dressing up your Apple Pound Cake Recipe is simple and fun! A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a classic, elegant look, but you can also try a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for indulgence. Fresh apple slices or a pinch of cinnamon on top can elevate presentation while harmonizing with the cake’s flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a cozy treat for breakfast or afternoon snack. For a special dessert, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a creamy custard to complement the cake’s moist, spiced apples.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, consider serving your Apple Pound Cake Recipe with a dusting of edible flowers or chopped nuts scattered around on the plate. You can also slice and layer it with cream cheese frosting for a unique twist that’ll impress friends and family at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Apple Pound Cake Recipe stays fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer keeping, refrigeration is recommended, though bring it back to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Frozen, it will keep well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
If you’d like to enjoy a warm slice, gently reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes. The warmth will revive the moist crumb and release inviting aromas, making your Apple Pound Cake Recipe taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this Apple Pound Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best because they hold their shape and offer a balance of tartness and sweetness that complements the cake.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the recipe?
Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the cake’s flavor and texture, but if you’re out, plain yogurt or crème fraîche can be good substitutes.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Also, the cake’s surface will be golden and spring back lightly when pressed.
Can I add other mix-ins besides nuts?
Definitely! Dried cranberries, raisins, or even chocolate chips can be folded in for extra flavor and texture variations that make this Apple Pound Cake Recipe uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
Baking this Apple Pound Cake Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting hug on a crisp fall day. With its tender crumb and delightful apple-cinnamon burst, it’s an easy recipe to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and a cup of tea, this cake has a way of turning ordinary days into something special. So go ahead, grab those apples, preheat your oven, and dive into the joy of baking your new favorite pound cake!
Print
Apple Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Pound Cake is a moist, tender cake infused with warm cinnamon and studded with fresh chopped apples and optional nuts. Perfect for dessert or an afternoon treat, it combines classic pound cake richness with fruity freshness and a subtle crunch, finished with an optional dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Add-ins
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan to prevent sticking during baking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside for later use.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until all ingredients are combined to keep the batter tender.
- Add the Apples and Nuts (Optional): Gently fold in the chopped apples into the batter, ensuring even distribution. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake for 60-70 Minutes: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake top should be golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Optional Finishing Touch: Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation and a touch of sweetness before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for better creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to avoid a dense cake.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; clean or few crumbs mean it’s ready.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- The walnuts or pecans are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
