Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)

1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup milk

2 medium apples (finely chopped, about 1 1/2 to 2 cups)

8 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

2 cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup chopped toasted nuts (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter two 9-inch round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and butter the parchment.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and allspice. Set aside.

Step 3: Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with two parts of milk, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped apples.

Step 6: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Step 7: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the cakes in the pans for 15 minutes. Then invert onto wire racks, remove the parchment paper, and let cool completely.

Step 9: For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in cinnamon and vanilla extract.

Step 11: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half the frosting evenly over the top.

Step 12: Add the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over it. Garnish with chopped toasted nuts if desired.

Tips & Variations

For added texture, try folding in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter along with the apples.

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

Make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth frosting texture.

Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor—toast them lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any firm apple variety. Tart apples like Granny Smith hold up well and add a pleasant tartness, while sweeter varieties will make the cake milder.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Be careful not to overbake the cake and store it wrapped or covered to retain moisture. Using the apples adds natural moisture, which also helps keep the cake tender.