Name: Apple Layer Cake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk); 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3–4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional); Optional: caramel sauce for drizzling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is the perfect combination of cozy flavor and showstopping presentation. Each bite offers the rich texture of apple cake with hints of spice, balanced by the smooth tanginess of cream cheese or the sweetness of buttercream. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with caramel drizzle and chopped nuts, Apple Layer Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Apples (peeled and finely chopped)
Buttermilk or whole milk
Optional: walnuts or pecans

For the frosting

Cream cheese (softened) or unsalted butter (if using buttercream)
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Optional: ground cinnamon or caramel sauce

Directions

Preheat the oven and grease and line two or three round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
In another large bowl, cream butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined.
Gently fold in the chopped apples (and nuts if using).
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese or butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix until fluffy. Add cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel if desired.
Once the cakes are fully cooled, frost between the layers and over the top and sides. Decorate as desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 10 to 12 slices. Prep time is about 25 minutes, baking time is 30 to 35 minutes per layer, and allow time for cooling and frosting (approximately 1 hour). Total time is about 2 hours including assembly.

Variations

Caramel apple twist: Add a caramel drizzle between the layers and over the top.
Spiced buttercream: Replace cream cheese frosting with cinnamon buttercream for a warmer flavor.
Apple compote filling: Layer with a cooked apple filling for extra texture and sweetness.
Nuts and raisins: Add chopped walnuts and golden raisins to the batter.
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Bundt version: Bake the batter in a bundt pan and top with glaze for a simpler presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store the fully frosted cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered in an airtight container or cake dome. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Individual slices can be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap well and thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

What apples are best for this cake?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples work well for their firmness and balance of tart and sweet.

Can I make the cake layers in advance?

Yes, you can bake the layers a day ahead. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze until ready to frost.

What frosting works best?

Cream cheese frosting is classic, but cinnamon-spiced buttercream or a whipped caramel frosting are also excellent choices.

Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apples?

You can replace part of the chopped apples with applesauce, but it may slightly alter the texture and structure of the cake.

How do I prevent the cake from being too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and use finely chopped apples for even distribution.

Can I bake this in a 9×13-inch pan?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Is this cake freezer-friendly?

Yes, the cake layers and fully assembled cake can both be frozen. Wrap well and thaw in the fridge overnight.

How do I keep the layers even?

Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly and level the layers with a serrated knife if needed.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Absolutely. The nuts are optional and can be omitted for allergy concerns or preference.

What’s the best way to decorate this cake?

A simple layer of frosting with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts looks beautiful. For a more dramatic finish, drizzle with caramel or decorate with apple slices.

Conclusion

Apple Layer Cake is a cozy, elegant dessert that brings together the best of fall flavors in a gorgeous layered presentation. With tender spiced cake, chunks of apple, and creamy frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser for holidays, parties, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and special. Whether you go simple or fancy with the decorations, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy.