Introduction

Apple Dapple Cake is a moist and warmly spiced dessert filled with tender chunks of apples and topped with a rich buttery glaze. It’s a comforting treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a classic, fruit-filled cake with a sweet finish.

A close-up view of a thick square slice of apple cake on a white plate shows three main layers: the bottom layer is a golden brown, crumbly cake with a soft texture; the middle layer consists of small, soft, pale yellow apple chunks embedded within the cake; the top layer is a glossy, smooth, light brown caramel sauce evenly spread over the apple pieces, with the sauce reflecting light and giving a shiny look. In the background, slightly out of focus, there are two green apples sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups vegetable oil
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 large eggs
4 cups apples, peeled and chopped into ½-inch chunks
⅓ cup butter (for glaze)
⅓ cup packed brown sugar (for glaze)
⅓ cup granulated sugar (for glaze)
⅓ cup heavy cream (for glaze)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the vegetable oil with granulated sugar and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.
Step 4: Add vanilla extract, then beat in eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined; the batter will be thick.
Step 6: Fold the chopped apples into the batter evenly with a spoon or spatula.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50–60 minutes, testing doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
Step 8: While the cake bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, and heavy cream; stir constantly until simmering, then continue for 1 minute.
Step 9: Remove the glaze from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 10: After the cake cools 10 minutes, pour the warm glaze evenly over it. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith for a tangy contrast to the sweet glaze.
For extra texture, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter along with the apples.
If you prefer a lighter glaze, reduce the butter slightly or omit the heavy cream.
The glaze can be drizzled warm or served on the side for guests to add as desired.

Storage

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave to soften the glaze and cake. This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

A square piece of moist brown cake with visible chunks of light yellow apple baked inside is placed on a white plate. The cake is covered with a shiny, smooth caramel-colored glaze that drips slightly down the sides, giving it a glossy finish. The texture of the cake looks soft and crumbly, contrasting with the smooth glaze on top. The background shows a white marbled surface adding to the clean and simple setting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with canola or light olive oil. Avoid strong-flavored oils to keep the cake’s flavor balanced.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. Baking times may vary slightly.