Apple Pound Cake

Apple Pound Cake: A Perfectly Moist and Flavorful Fall Dessert

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. This Apple Pound Cake is the perfect fall dessert, offering a moist, tender crumb filled with juicy apple chunks and a hint of cinnamon. Topped with an optional sweet glaze, this cake is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to serve at a family gathering or just want to indulge in a slice of autumnal goodness, this Apple Pound Cake is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Apple Pound Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 ½ cups white granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup milk, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 apples, peeled and chopped

For the Optional Glaze:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream (or substitute milk)

Directions

1. Make the Apple Pound Cake

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 1-pound loaf pan and set it aside.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until it’s light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add the Eggs:
   On low speed, add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating just until each egg is incorporated.
4. Incorporate the Flour and Milk:
   Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¾ cup of milk to the mixture, alternating between the two, until the batter is smooth. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
5. Fold in the Apples:
   Gently fold in 2 peeled and chopped apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake the Cake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, filling it about ¾ full to allow room for the cake to rise. Bake for 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake:
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Optional Glaze

1. Prepare the Glaze:
   In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 6 tablespoons of melted butter, 3 cups of powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream (or milk) until smooth and slightly thickened.
2. Glaze the Cake:
   Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top for a sweet and decorative finish.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the Apple Pound Cake and serve it as is for a delightful snack or dessert. For an extra indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for cozy fall afternoons.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake remains moist and flavorful, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings or just to have on hand for a sweet treat.

Conclusion

This Apple Pound Cake is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With its tender crumb, warm spices, and sweet apple chunks, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you enjoy it plain or with the optional glaze, this cake is a perfect way to welcome the cooler weather and enjoy the bounty of the season.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
Calories: 350 kcal | Servings: 8-10 slices

Print