- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (or cream for richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the grated apples (and nuts, if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before glazing.
6. Prepare the Glaze
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, if the glaze is too thick.
7. Glaze and Serve
- Drizzle the glaze evenly over the slightly cooled cake.
- Slice the cake and serve warm or at room temperature.
- Enjoy every bite of this moist, spiced, and indulgent Kentucky Apple Cake!
- Perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Apples: Freshly grated apples add moisture and natural sweetness to the cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.
- Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and pair beautifully with the apples.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm treat.
Why This Recipe Works
This Kentucky Apple Cake combines the natural sweetness and moisture of grated apples with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg into a cake that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced baking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone dessert or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this cake delivers big on taste and nostalgia.
Conclusion: A Treat Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something sweet and seasonal, looking for a way to simplify dessert prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Kentucky Apple Cake is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this cake might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
