Ingredients
For the Batter:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional but brightens the flavor)
For the Apples:
- 4 large apples (peeled, cored, and chopped into chunks)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Creamy Filling (optional but heavenly):
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch (or larger) glass baking dish. - Prepare the apples:
In a bowl, mix chopped apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside. - Make the creamy filling:
In another small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside. - Mix the cake batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- Mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients into the wet until just smooth.
- Assemble the cake:
- Pour half the batter into your prepared pan.
- Evenly scatter the cinnamon apples over the batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture randomly over the apples.
- Top with the remaining batter, spreading gently to cover.
- Bake:
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. - Cool and serve:
Allow it to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. It’s amazing warm or chilled!
Optional Toppings
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Drizzle with caramel or vanilla glaze
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Benefits
- Apples add natural sweetness, fiber, and moisture.
- Cream cheese adds protein and a creamy texture.
- Homemade cake means no preservatives, just rich, comforting flavor.
- Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy evenings.