This one bowl apple spice cake is an easy fall bake with fresh apple pieces, applesauce, and warm spices in every slice. The batter comes together in one bowl, so there is no need for a mixer or a pile of dishes. A sprinkle of sugar creates a delicate crunchy top that contrasts with the moist crumb. It is simple enough for an afternoon snack and pretty enough to serve with coffee when friends stop by. Firm apples hold their shape, while applesauce adds moisture and helps the cake stay tender.
Recipe at a Glance
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes + 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Estimated calories: Approximately 260 per serving
- Difficulty: Easy
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One bowl keeps prep and cleanup simple.
- Fresh apple and applesauce create a tender crumb.
- Warm spices make it a natural fall baking choice.
- The sugar topping adds texture without frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 medium firm apple, finely diced
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup neutral oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 cup finely chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping
How to Make It
Step 1: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square pan and line it with parchment, leaving a little overhang.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt.
Step 3: Add diced apple, applesauce, brown sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla. Fold until just combined and no dry flour remains. Fold in crystallized ginger if using.
Step 4: Scrape batter into the pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top for a delicate crunchy crust.
Step 5: Bake 32–38 minutes, until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift onto a rack using the parchment. Cool before slicing for the neatest pieces.
Helpful Tips
- Use a firm apple such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.
- Dice apple into small, even pieces for consistent baking.
- Measure flour carefully and avoid overbaking.
Easy Variations
- Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Skip crystallized ginger for a classic apple-cinnamon flavor.
- Serve with plain yogurt or a small spoonful of whipped cream.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze wrapped slices for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What apples are best for apple spice cake?
Firm baking apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape well.
Can I make apple cake without a mixer?
Yes. This one-bowl batter comes together with a whisk and spatula.
How do I keep apple cake moist?
Measure flour carefully, avoid overbaking, and store the cooled cake covered.
Long-Tail Keyword Ideas
easy apple spice cake, one bowl apple cake, apple cinnamon snack cake, fresh apple dessert, easy fall cake recipe
One-Bowl Apple Spice Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square pan and line it with parchment, leaving a little overhang.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt.
- Step 3: Add diced apple, applesauce, brown sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla. Fold until just combined and no dry flour remains. Fold in crystallized ginger if using.
- Step 4: Scrape batter into the pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top for a delicate crunchy crust.
- Step 5: Bake 32–38 minutes, until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 6: Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift onto a rack using the parchment. Cool before slicing for the neatest pieces.