If you’re on the hunt for the perfect autumn dessert that combines the moistness of pudding and the rich flavor of apples, look no further than this scrumptious Apple Pudding Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home, this dessert promises to delight your taste buds with its sweet and tangy flavors. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions to ensure your apple pudding cake turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Apple Pudding Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 2 medium apples)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking dish.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Fold in Apples
- Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter. The mixture might be thick, but be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continue beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and serve the apple pudding cake. Optionally, you can garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Apple Pudding Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, guaranteed to satisfy your dessert cravings. Its moist texture and creamy topping make it a hit for any event or just a special treat for yourself. Whether you serve it at a holiday party or after a family dinner, this cake is sure to impress. Remember, the key to perfect baking is precision in ingredients and love in preparation!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- For an extra touch of indulgence, serve each slice of Apple Pudding Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon or grated nutmeg on top of the cream cheese frosting for a festive presentation.
- Pair each serving with a hot cup of coffee or a comforting mug of apple cider for a delightful flavor combination.
Storage:
- Store any leftover Apple Pudding Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To maintain its freshness, you can also wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating.
- When ready to enjoy again, simply bring the cake to room temperature or microwave individual slices for a few seconds to warm them up before serving.
With these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your delicious Apple Pudding Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful for every indulgent bite.
1. Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a specific type of apple, you are free to use whichever variety you prefer or have on hand. Some popular choices for baking include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala apples due to their firm texture and good balance of sweetness and tartness. Experimenting with different types can also add unique flavors and textures to your cake.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this Apple Pudding Cake, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that can be used as a 1:1 replacement for regular flour. Additionally, ensure all other ingredients, such as baking powder and vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
3. Can the Apple Pudding Cake be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this cake in advance which makes it convenient for gatherings. You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it, covered, in the refrigerator without the frosting. On the day of serving, bring the cake to room temperature, then spread the freshly made cream cheese frosting over the top. This approach helps keep the cake moist and the frosting fresh.
4. What’s the best way to store leftover frosting if I have any remaining?
If you have leftover cream cheese frosting, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before reusing, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a good stir to bring back its creamy texture. This frosting can also be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before using to restore its consistency.