Apple Pound Cake Recipe

There is nothing quite like the warm, soothing aroma of a perfectly baked Apple Pound Cake Recipe filling your kitchen. This cake is a delightful harmony of tender, moist crumb infused with cinnamon and studded with fresh, juicy apples. It’s a timeless treat that brings a cozy smile to every bite, making it an ultimate comfort dessert that’s wonderfully easy to prepare yet impressively delicious. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, this Apple Pound Cake Recipe is sure to become your new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Pound Cake Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role—from the creamy butter giving richness to the tender crumb, to the cinnamon and apples adding warmth and natural sweetness. Let’s take a look at what you need:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and soft texture necessary for a classic pound cake.
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly for a light yet dense texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a comforting, fragrant spice that complements the apples beautifully.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The core of richness that ensures moistness and tender crumb.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
• 4 large eggs: Bind everything together and help create the cake’s signature dense texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the pound cake delightfully moist.
• 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped: The stars of the recipe—adding juicy bites and freshness in every forkful.
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor if you like a bit of texture contrast.
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional): Gives the cake a pretty finishing touch and a hint of extra sweetness.

How to Make Apple Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan. This simple prep ensures your masterpiece won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these dry components first guarantees they distribute evenly in the batter, infusing every bite with that irresistible cinnamon warmth.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, airy, and creamy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This essential step creates the cake’s tender crumb and that slight lift you want in a pound cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs enrich the batter and help it bind, while vanilla deepens the overall flavor.

Step 5: Alternately Add Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Now, alternate folding the dry ingredients and the sour cream into your butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. This alternating method delivers a perfectly moist, tender texture, avoiding overmixing that could lead to toughness.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped apples, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you’re using walnuts or pecans, add them here too. These little bursts of texture and sweetness make every bite memorable.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top to create an even surface that will bake beautifully.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfect

Bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. The smell at this stage is pure heaven!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes—this resting time helps it set and makes it easier to remove. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 10: Optional Finishing Touch

Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant and sweet finish that’s just as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Apple Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your Apple Pound Cake Recipe by garnishing with a simple dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a handful of toasted nuts scattered on top brings delightful textures and flavor layers that really impress.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with warm spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee, creating a cozy and satisfying experience. For a more decadent touch, serve alongside caramel sauce or a tart apple compote to complement the sweet and fruity qualities.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the cake and serve it as mini trifle layers with cinnamon-spiced pudding and apple slices in clear glasses. Or plate it as rustic wedges, drizzled with honey and garnished with fresh apple slices for that fresh-from-the-orchard vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Apple Pound Cake Recipe keeps wonderfully for several days at room temperature when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This helps maintain its moistness and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen slices can last up to three months and thaw quickly when you want a sweet bite.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm, simply microwave a slice for 15 to 20 seconds or reheat gently in a low-temperature oven. Warm apple pound cake tastes even more delicious as the flavors and aromas become more pronounced.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this cake?

Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter varieties like Fuji work beautifully. Just pick firm apples to ensure they hold their shape during baking.

Is it necessary to use sour cream in the batter?

Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that balances sweetness, but you can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk if needed, keeping the same amount for similar results.

Can I make this Apple Pound Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum for structure. The texture may differ slightly but the taste remains delicious.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with only a few crumbs clinging. Also, the cake top will turn golden brown, indicating it’s ready.

Can I add other spices besides cinnamon?

Definitely! Nutmeg, allspice, or ginger can add lovely depth. Start with small amounts to complement rather than overpower the apple flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pound Cake Recipe is a true celebration of comforting flavors and simple ingredients coming together to create a magic moment at your table. It’s easy to make, wonderful for sharing, and perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to bake it and experience the joy it brings—trust me, it’ll quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.

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