Classic Apple Nut Cake

Instructions:

**Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the 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 for easy removal.

**Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients**
– In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Set aside.

**Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is key to achieving a tender, airy cake.

**Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla**
– Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

**Step 5: Add the dry ingredients and sour cream**
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two additions, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

**Step 6: Fold in the apples and nuts**
– Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts. These ingredients not only add flavor but also moisture and texture to the cake. Be careful not to break the apples too much as you fold them in.

**Step 7: Pour the batter into the pan**
– Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. The batter will be thick, so it may require a little spreading.

**Step 8: Bake the cake**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.

**Step 9: Let the cake cool**
– Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

**Step 10: Optional Glaze**
– While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze (if using). In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or water, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
– Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.

**Step 11: Serve and enjoy!**
– Slice and serve your *Classic Apple Nut Cake* with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply enjoy it on its own. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an afternoon snack or a dessert at dinner.

### Tips for Success:
– **Choose the right apples:** For the best texture and flavor, choose apples that are firm and tart, like Granny Smith, which holds up well during baking and balances the sweetness of the cake. Honeycrisp apples also work wonderfully if you prefer a sweeter taste.
– **Make sure the butter is softened:** Softened butter helps to create a smooth batter and ensures your cake has a light, tender texture.
– **Don’t overmix the batter:** Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix only until the ingredients are incorporated, especially when adding the dry ingredients.
– **Experiment with nuts:** Walnuts and pecans are classic choices, but you can also try other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.
– **Add a pinch of spice:** Cinnamon and nutmeg are optional but add a lovely warmth to the cake, making it perfect for cooler months or festive occasions.

### Why You’ll Love This Classic Apple Nut Cake:
– **Moist and Flavorful:** The combination of apples and sour cream creates a super moist cake, while the nuts add a delightful crunch and richness.
– **Comforting and Homey:** This cake brings the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, evoking the comforting, cozy flavors we associate with home-baked desserts.
– **Versatile:** You can enjoy it as is, drizzle it with a glaze, or even serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a more decadent treat.
– **Perfect for All Occasions:** Whether it’s for a family gathering, a holiday dessert, or just an afternoon treat, this cake fits perfectly with any occasion.

### Conclusion:
The *Classic Apple Nut Cake* is a timeless dessert that combines the best of both worlds—sweet, juicy apples and crunchy nuts—wrapped in a tender, flavorful cake. With its simple yet satisfying ingredients, this cake is perfect for any time of year, but it’s especially comforting during the fall and winter months when apples are at their best. Whether enjoyed plain or with a drizzle of glaze, this cake is sure to become a beloved recipe in your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy a slice of this irresistible dessert today!