There’s something timeless about the smell of warm apples and cinnamon wafting from the oven. And when it comes from a cake you can whip up in 4 simple steps and bake in just 15 minutes, it’s pure magic. This spongy apple cake is inspired by classic, no-fuss recipes passed down through generations. It’s tender, moist, lightly sweet—and honestly, impossible to mess up.
Whether you’re new to baking or just need a quick comfort dessert, this one’s for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional, but so good!)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Optional toppings: powdered sugar, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts.
Grandma’s 4-Step Method:
Step 1: Prep Your Oven & Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a small rectangular or square baking dish (8×8 inch works great).
Step 2: Whip the Base
In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and slightly fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add the vanilla extract, then sift in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix just until combined—don’t overbeat.
Step 3: Fold in the Apples
Add the chopped apples to the batter and gently fold them in using a spatula until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
What Makes This Cake So Special?
- Light and spongy texture that stays moist
- Quick bake time—done in just 15 minutes!
- No mixer needed, just a whisk or fork
- Made with simple ingredients from your pantry
- Tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen
Easy Customizations
Want to make it your own? Try these:
- Add nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
- Make it gluten-free: Swap flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Boost the flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of applesauce for extra moisture.
- Turn it into muffins: Bake in muffin tins for grab-and-go apple cake bites (adjust baking time to 10–12 minutes).
Storing & Serving Tips
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Want to reheat? A quick 10 seconds in the microwave brings the softness right back.
Final Thoughts
This spongy apple cake proves that the best recipes don’t need a long ingredient list or hours of work. With just 4 steps and 15 minutes in the oven, you get a warm, cozy treat that tastes like love—just the way Grandma used to make.
