This Apple Walnut Cake is a heartwarming classic that brings together sweet, tart apples and crunchy toasted walnuts in a soft, fluffy cake. It’s perfect for cozy afternoons, weekend baking, or as a humble dessert that delights with every bite. The moist texture comes from a simple combination of eggs, oil, and milk, while the apples add bursts of flavor in every slice. Whether you’re serving it warm or chilled, this rustic-style cake will surely impress your guests — and make your kitchen smell absolutely divine.
Cooking Time
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Bake Time: 40 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Yield: 8–10 slices
Ingredients
Cake Batter:
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2 eggs
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½ cup sugar (100 g / 3.5 oz)
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A pinch of salt
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1 tsp vanilla essence
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¼ cup sunflower oil (60 ml / 2 fl oz)
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½ cup milk (120 ml / 4 fl oz)
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1¾ cups flour (250 g)
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1 tsp baking powder
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3 apples (preferably Fuji), diced into small pieces
Topping:
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½ cup chopped walnuts
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60 g (2 oz) unsalted butter
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2 tbsp sugar
Pan:
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27 x 18 cm (10.5 x 7 inches) baking pan
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Baking paper and a bit of butter for greasing
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Line your baking pan with parchment paper. Grease the base of the pan lightly with butter before placing the paper — this helps it stick and stay in place.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with sugar until light and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and vanilla essence. Mix well.
Pour in the sunflower oil and milk. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the flour and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or whisk until a thick, smooth batter forms.
4. Add the Apples
Peel and dice the apples into small, uniform cubes. Choose sweet-and-sour apples like Fuji for the best flavor.
Fold the apple pieces into the batter until evenly distributed.
5. Pour into the Pan
Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula.
6. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine chopped walnuts, softened or melted butter, and sugar. Mix well.
Sprinkle the walnut topping evenly over the cake batter.
7. Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
The top should be golden and crisp, and the inside soft and fluffy.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Cut into squares and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)
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Calories: 240
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Protein: 4g
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Sugars: 16g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sodium: 70mg
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Apple cakes are cherished across many cultures — from German Apfelkuchen to French Tarte Tatin and American apple cobblers. This recipe brings a home-style, European touch that’s simple yet delicious. The use of everyday pantry ingredients and seasonal fruit makes it a staple in family kitchens. The walnut topping adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the tartness of the apples beautifully.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to make: No fancy equipment or techniques needed.
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Moist and flavorful: Thanks to the apples and butter topping.
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Balanced sweetness: Not overly sweet, so it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
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Customizable: You can change fruits or nuts to suit your taste.
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Perfect texture: Crunchy topping, soft cake, juicy apples.
Health Benefits
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Apples: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, they promote digestion and support immunity.
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Walnuts: High in omega-3s and antioxidants, great for heart health.
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Eggs and milk: Provide protein, calcium, and essential vitamins.
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Sunflower oil: A healthy source of unsaturated fats.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness boost.
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Pair with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a light dessert.
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Enjoy with hot tea, coffee, or warm apple cider.
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Add powdered sugar or cinnamon on top for presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using the wrong apples: Sweet and sour varieties like Fuji or Braeburn work best.
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Overmixing the batter: This can make the cake tough. Mix until just combined.
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Underbaking: Always check the center with a toothpick.
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Too much apple juice in batter: Avoid overly juicy apples; pat diced pieces dry if needed.
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Uneven walnut distribution: Spread the topping evenly to prevent soggy or burnt areas.
Pairing Recommendations
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Beverages: Chai tea, black coffee, mulled wine, apple cider, or herbal infusions.
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Desserts: Pair with vanilla custard, baked pears, or cinnamon scones.
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Savories: Great after a light lunch like a salad or sandwich.
Cooking Tips
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Toast the walnuts: Enhances their flavor before mixing into the topping.
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Chill the cake before slicing: For neater slices and firmer texture.
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Use room-temperature eggs and milk: Helps create a smoother batter.
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Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter: For extra warmth.
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Double the topping: For a more indulgent crumble layer.
Similar Recipes to Try
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German Apple Streusel Cake
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Apple Cinnamon Muffins
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Banana Walnut Loaf
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Apple Crumble Bars
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Pear and Almond Cake
Variations to Try
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Add raisins or cranberries: Soak them in warm water or juice first.
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Use pears or peaches instead of apples: Adjust sweetness as needed.
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Add spices: A dash of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom works well.
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Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts: Each brings its own flavor.
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Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
Ingredient Spotlight: Fuji Apples
Fuji apples are a favorite for baking thanks to their firm texture and balanced sweet-tart flavor. They hold their shape during baking and release just enough juice to moisten the batter without making it soggy. Their rosy-red skin and crisp white flesh make them perfect for both flavor and appearance in baked goods.
Conclusion
This Sweet and Moist Apple Walnut Cake is everything you want in a homemade dessert: simple, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. With its tender crumb, juicy apple bites, and buttery walnut crunch, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll make again and again. Whether for a family gathering, tea time, or a casual treat, this cake delivers on taste, texture, and ease of preparation.
10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best apples to use for this cake?
Fuji, Braeburn, Granny Smith, or Gala apples work best. They provide a sweet-sour flavor and hold up well during baking.
2. Can I use a different oil instead of sunflower oil?
Yes, vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted coconut oil are great alternatives.
3. Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on for added fiber.
4. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! It stores well and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop.
5. How should I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
6. Can I freeze it?
Yes. Let it cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
7. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
8. How do I know when the cake is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. The top should be golden and set.
9. Can I omit the walnuts?
Yes. You can skip the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
10. Is this cake suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It’s not overly sweet and includes fruit and nuts for added nutrition.