Apple Cake Recipe

#### 1. **Prepare the Oven and Pan**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake once it’s baked.

#### 2. **Prepare the Apples**
Peel and chop your apples into small cubes, about 1/2 inch in size. Place them in a bowl and toss them with the tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning. If you’re using nuts, you can also chop them and set them aside.

#### 3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

#### 4. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is important for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

#### 5. **Add the Eggs and Vanilla**
Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

#### 6. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender cake.

#### 7. **Fold in the Apples**
Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using) into the batter. The apples should be evenly distributed throughout the cake mixture.

#### 8. **Bake the Cake**
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.

#### 9. **Cool the Cake**
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

#### 10. **Serve and Enjoy**
Once the cake has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a simple finish. For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with a dollop of whipped cream. Slice and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of apple cake.

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### Tips for Perfect Apple Cake

– **Choosing Apples**: For the best texture and flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Fuji or Gala apples bring sweetness to the cake.

– **Adding Nuts**: If you love the crunch of nuts, walnuts or pecans are a perfect addition to the batter. They pair beautifully with the apples and add an extra layer of flavor.

– **Adjusting the Spice**: If you’re a fan of warming spices, feel free to increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

– **Make It Ahead**: This cake can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

– **Serving Suggestions**: Apple cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.

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### Conclusion

This Apple Cake Recipe is the ultimate dessert for apple lovers, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The moist, tender cake with sweet and slightly tart apples is the perfect treat for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday celebrations. It’s simple to make, customizable, and sure to become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire.

Try this apple cake today and enjoy the comforting flavors of fresh apples baked into a delicious, homemade dessert!