There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting scent of Apple Dapple Cake baking in the oven. This classic, old-fashioned cake features tender apples, a moist crumb, and a caramel-like glaze that soaks right into the cake, creating a dessert that’s wonderfully comforting. I discovered this recipe from my grandmother’s recipe box, and it has become a family staple during the fall months when apples are at their peak.

This Apple Dapple Cake is quick to put together, making it perfect for family gatherings, cozy weekends, or any time you need a little taste of nostalgia. Let’s dive into what makes this cake so irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Dapple Cake

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate fall dessert! Apple Dapple Cake is not only incredibly delicious, but it’s also easy to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

First, this cake is all about the apples. Fresh apple chunks scattered throughout the batter make it moist, juicy, and packed with natural sweetness. Every bite is filled with warm, apple-spiced goodness.

Then there’s the decadent glaze that makes this cake unforgettable. Once the cake is out of the oven, you pour a warm brown sugar and butter glaze over the top. It soaks into every corner, adding an extra layer of sweetness and moisture that makes each slice melt in your mouth.

It’s also one-bowl easy, which means less mess and fewer dishes. You can whip this cake together in about 15 minutes, making it a quick solution for busy days or when guests drop by unexpectedly.

Finally, this cake is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it with your morning coffee. The flavors only get better with time, so leftovers (if there are any!) make an excellent snack the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Apple Dapple Cake lies in its simplicity. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this delightful dessert.

Apples: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture. Their natural tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and glaze, while their firmness keeps the apple pieces from becoming mushy as the cake bakes.
Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works beautifully here, providing structure to the cake. Make sure to measure it correctly (spooned and leveled) for a tender crumb.
Sugar: This cake uses both granulated sugar and brown sugar. Granulated sugar sweetens the batter, while the brown sugar in the glaze adds a warm, molasses-like flavor that perfectly complements the apples.
Oil: Vegetable or canola oil keeps this cake moist and tender. Unlike butter, oil doesn’t solidify when the cake cools, so each slice remains soft even after storing.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are key to giving this cake its warm, spiced flavor. Feel free to adjust these spices to suit your taste or add a pinch of allspice or cloves for extra depth.

No special equipment is needed, though an 8x8-inch baking pan and a small saucepan for the glaze will come in handy. A whisk, mixing bowl, and spatula are all you need to bring this cake together.

How to Make This Apple Dapple Cake

Making Apple Dapple Cake is as easy as mixing up the batter, baking, and adding a delicious glaze. Let’s walk through each step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8x8-inch baking pan. This will help prevent the cake from sticking, making it easier to remove later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and oil until well blended. Add in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This creates a smooth, creamy base that ensures a tender cake.

Next, fold in the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so mix gently. Then, stir in the diced apples, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out to create an even layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly pulling away from the edges of the pan.

While the cake bakes, make the glaze by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar and milk, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

As soon as the cake is out of the oven, pour the warm glaze over the top. It will seep into the cake, adding incredible flavor and moisture. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing.

Storage Options

Apple Dapple Cake stores wonderfully, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 days. Keep it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly to maintain its moisture.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake. It will keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Bring slices to room temperature before serving, or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Freezing: Apple Dapple Cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw slices at room temperature or warm in the microwave when ready to enjoy.

To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will soften the glaze and bring back the cake’s fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Variations and Substitutions

This Apple Dapple Cake is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are some ideas to try:

Add nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor. The nuts pair wonderfully with the apples and add a rustic texture to each bite.
Spice it up: For a more intense spice profile, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the batter. These spices give the cake an extra warming quality, perfect for chilly days.
Glaze alternatives: If you prefer a lighter cake, skip the glaze, and dust the top with powdered sugar instead. It’s a simple, elegant touch that keeps the cake a bit less sweet.
Swap the oil: If you’d like a more buttery flavor, try using melted butter instead of oil in the batter. It adds richness, though the cake might be slightly less moist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1-to-1 substitute that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe. It’s one of those cakes that welcomes little tweaks and personal touches, so feel free to make it uniquely yours! Enjoy a slice of Apple Dapple Cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and savor the flavors of fall in every bite.