There’s something incredibly nostalgic about baking an Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake. I remember the first time I made it, my grandma was right by my side, guiding me through each step. That rich, warm aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through the kitchen is simply unforgettable!
This cake is a delightful blend of sweet and tart, with a moist texture that just melts in your mouth. It’s one of those recipes that brings a smile to your face with every bite. Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll be reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds) before you know it!
Ingredients List
For this delightful Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 4 cups chopped tart apples (I love using Granny Smith for that perfect balance!)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional, but they add a lovely crunch)
Make sure your apples are chopped into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the cake. Trust me, the more apples, the better! And don’t worry if you don’t have walnuts—this cake is just as delicious without them!
How to Prepare Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this scrumptious Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake! Follow my steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting cake ready to enjoy in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven helps the cake rise beautifully and bake evenly. If you skip this step, you might end up with a dense cake instead of the fluffy goodness we’re aiming for!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. I like to whisk these together until they’re well blended—this helps avoid any clumps and ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the cake. The aroma of cinnamon will already start to waft through your kitchen, and it’s just a hint of what’s to come!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add in the wet ingredients! Pour 1 cup of vegetable oil and crack in the 4 large eggs into your dry mix. Using a whisk or a wooden spoon, mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. You want to make sure there are no streaks of flour left—this mix is the base for our delightful cake!
Step 4: Fold in Apples and Walnuts
Now for the star of the show: the chopped apples and walnuts! Gently fold in 4 cups of chopped tart apples and 1 cup of chopped walnuts (if using) into the batter. Be careful here—folding means you’re incorporating the ingredients without overmixing, which can make the cake tough. You want to see those lovely chunks of apple peeking out, ready to burst with flavor!
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, spreading it out evenly. This is where the magic happens! Bake your cake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. To check if it’s done, stick a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go. If not, give it a few more minutes, but don’t overbake! Trust me, we want that perfect moist texture.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Once it’s baked to perfection, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial because it allows the cake to set properly. Serve it warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s absolutely delicious! I love to enjoy a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to take it to the next level. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While I love Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firmness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn apples. Just remember, the best apple varieties are those that hold their shape well during baking and offer a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. Experimenting with different types can bring out unique flavors in your Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake!
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, I recommend placing it in the fridge, where it can last for about a week. Just make sure it’s well covered so it doesn’t dry out!
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. No need to reheat if you prefer it chilled!
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake
- Quick preparation—mix it up in no time and get baking!
- Rich flavor that perfectly balances sweet and tart with every bite.
- Delightful texture, moist and tender, thanks to those juicy apples.
- A true crowd-pleaser—everyone will be asking for seconds!
- Versatile enough to enjoy warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
- Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for each slice of this delightful Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
This cake is a delightful treat, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet! The combination of apples and walnuts adds some nutritional value, making it a sweet option that still feels wholesome.
Tips for Success with Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake
To ensure your Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips I swear by! First, make sure to use tart apples—Granny Smith are my go-to—for that delicious contrast in flavor. It’s also a good idea to measure your flour correctly; too much can lead to a dense cake. When mixing, be gentle, especially when folding in the apples and walnuts; you want to keep that airy texture! Lastly, don’t skip the cooling step; letting the cake rest helps all those wonderful flavors meld together. Trust me, these little tricks make a big difference!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve it longer, pop it in the refrigerator, where it can last about a week. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, you can serve it straight from the fridge or let it come to room temperature for a bit. If you prefer it warm, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it, or you might lose that lovely moist texture!
Print
Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake: 7 Ways to Savor Nostalgia
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic apple cake with a rich flavor and delightful texture.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 4 cups chopped apples
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add oil and eggs to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Fold in chopped apples and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples for best flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- This cake can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Old-Fashioned Apple Dapple Cake
