Dutch Apple Cake — warm, buttery, and perfectly spiced — is one of those recipes that reminds me why I started BeamRecipes in the first place. Hi, I’m Amanda. Cooking has always been more than a task for me—it’s a way to create comfort, connection, and joy. From the sweet aroma of baked apples to the golden crust that forms in the oven, this cake feels like home in every bite. At BeamRecipes, I share simple, heartfelt dishes like this one—recipes made for real life, with stories, love, and flavors that turn everyday moments into something truly memorable.
Serving Versatility
One of the best things about this cake is how adaptable it is. Serve a warm slice with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for breakfast, and it becomes the perfect start to your morning. For dessert, try drizzling a bit of warm caramel sauce on top — it transforms into something reminiscent of a Caramel Apple Cake.
If you’re watching carbs, serve smaller squares with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For gatherings, it’s lovely alongside coffee, just like a traditional Apple Coffee Cake. Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a simple afternoon snack, this cake fits every mood.
Ingredients (Detailed & Humanized)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: the soft base that keeps the cake tender.
1 tsp baking powder: helps the cake rise beautifully.
¼ tsp salt: balances the sweetness.
½ tsp ground cinnamon: adds cozy warmth and depth.
½ cup unsalted butter (softened): gives that rich, buttery crumb.
¾ cup granulated sugar: just the right sweetness to let the apples shine.
2 large eggs: add moisture and structure.
1 tsp vanilla extract: a comforting aroma in every bite.
½ cup milk: makes the batter light and smooth.
2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): the star ingredient — tart, juicy, and soft when baked.
1 tbsp brown sugar: for that caramelized top.
Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest for extra brightness.
Fresh apples bring sweetness and a touch of tartness, while cinnamon and vanilla add that nostalgic fall flavor. The brown sugar on top turns slightly crisp and golden — a hint of texture that makes each bite irresistible.
Directions (Step-by-Step Cooking Guide)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. You’ll thank yourself later when the cake slips out effortlessly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step evenly distributes the rising agents so the cake bakes perfectly fluffy.
- In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. It should look light and airy — this step gives the cake its soft texture.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract. The batter should smell like sweet butter and vanilla — pure comfort already.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with the dry. Mix gently until smooth and creamy, being careful not to overmix — that’s the secret to keeping the cake tender.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Arrange thin slices of apple in a circular pattern on top — they’ll bake into a golden mosaic.
- Sprinkle brown sugar (and a touch of extra cinnamon if you like) over the apples. This creates a lightly crisp, caramelized layer once baked.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like a cozy bakery by now.
- Cool for 10–15 minutes before removing from the pan. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or chilled for a firmer texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Quick to make: Ready in under an hour, perfect for spontaneous baking.
✅ Budget-friendly: Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have.
✅ Cozy, homemade flavor: Buttery, spiced, and filled with fresh apple sweetness.
✅ Nutritious and balanced: Made with real fruit and less sugar than most desserts.
✅ Great for meal prep: Stays moist for days — perfect for breakfast or snacks.
✅ Family-approved: Loved by kids and adults alike, especially with ice cream on top.
Cultural or Technique Note
Dutch baking is known for its emphasis on simplicity and warmth — think of it as the art of doing more with less. This Dutch Apple Cake follows that tradition perfectly: no frosting, no fuss, just pure, honest ingredients baked into something beautiful. In many Dutch homes, cakes like this are served with coffee for “koffietijd” — a treasured afternoon ritual of connection and comfort.
Serving Suggestions
With warm caramel drizzle for dessert.
Alongside coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon break.
With vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for breakfast.
Topped with toasted nuts and honey for a gourmet twist.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
- Don’t overmix your batter — a gentle hand keeps the crumb soft.
- Arrange apple slices evenly so they bake beautifully golden.
- Let the cake cool slightly before cutting to keep slices neat.
- Add a little lemon zest for brightness if your apples are very sweet.
- Serve slightly warm — it enhances the buttery aroma and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️ Overbaking: The cake dries out easily — check it at 35 minutes and remove when the center is just set.
⚠️ Using too many apples: Stick to about 2 medium ones; too many add excess moisture.
⚠️ Skipping the parchment paper: This cake is soft — lining the pan helps it release cleanly.
⚠️ Cutting it while hot: It needs a few minutes to firm up before slicing.
⚠️ Using cold butter: Room-temperature butter creams more evenly and gives a fluffy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dutch Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It stays soft and moist, thanks to the apples. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
When reheating, warm a slice in the oven at 300°F for about 8 minutes or in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. A quick reheat brings back that just-baked aroma and buttery softness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different apples?
Yes! Granny Smith gives a nice tart bite, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn work beautifully too.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely — swap butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use almond milk instead of dairy.
What sides go best with it?
Try serving it with vanilla ice cream, spiced whipped cream, or a drizzle of apple butter for a comforting twist.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a 9×13-inch pan and bake 5–10 minutes longer. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
How can I make it spicier or milder?
Add more cinnamon and nutmeg for warmth, or reduce spices if you prefer the apple flavor to shine on its own.
Closing Paragraph
Cooking isn’t just about feeding yourself — it’s about slowing down and creating something meaningful with simple ingredients. This Dutch Apple Cake brings that feeling to life. It’s a reminder that the best desserts don’t come from fancy bakeries, but from your own oven, where apples caramelize and memories are made. I hope this recipe fills your home with the same warmth it brings mine.
Final Thoughts
Whenever I make this Dutch Apple Cake, I’m reminded that simple food really is the most special. The scent of cinnamon, the sweetness of baked apples, the quiet joy of slicing into something homemade — it’s the essence of comfort. Food doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful; it just has to be made with care.
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Dutch Apple Cake
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup milk
Topping
- 2 medium apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar for sprinkling on top
- optional pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry. Mix gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan. Arrange apple slices in a circular pattern on top.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and optional extra cinnamon.
- Bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10–15 minutes. Remove and serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar if desired.