Harvest Cake

Oh wow. This Harvest Cake feels like fall on a plate. The smell alone pulls me in.

I love how soft and warm it is. Each bite tastes cozy, and yeah, it feels homemade.

I always want another slice. It’s sweet, gentle, and full of harvest flavor.

So let’s bake it together. Trust me, this Harvest Cake is worth every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Taste of Autumn: With apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg, every bite feels like a crisp fall day.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you can whip this up without a trip to the store.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of fresh apples and vegetable oil keeps this cake irresistibly moist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday treat or a holiday dessert, Harvest Cake shines every time.
• Customizable: Add your favorite nuts, swap spices, or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.

Required Kitchen Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this cozy dessert:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

Cake:

• 4 cups diced fresh apples (any sweet-tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil (canola oil works too)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (plus extra for garnish)

White Icing:

• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Variations for Harvest Cake

• Add Raisins: Stir in 1/2 cup of golden raisins for extra sweetness.
• Switch the Nuts: Try almonds or hazelnuts for a different texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Caramel Drizzle: Swap the white icing for a rich caramel glaze for a decadent twist.
• Add Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the batter for a fresh citrus note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the cake. Set them aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking soda. Whisk until evenly blended.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

4. Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light. Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts.

5. Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
4. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.

6. Prepare the White Icing

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (a few drops at a time) for a thinner drizzle or more powdered sugar for a thicker icing.

7. Decorate and Serve

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. Sprinkle with additional chopped nuts for garnish. Slice into squares or wedges and serve.

How to Serve Harvest Cake

This versatile cake can be enjoyed in countless ways:

• Warm with Ice Cream: Serve a slice slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
• With Coffee or Tea: Perfect as an afternoon snack or morning treat alongside your favorite hot beverage.
• Layered as a Celebration Cake: Divide the batter into two 8-inch round pans and layer with cream cheese frosting for a show-stopping dessert.
• Topped with Fresh Fruit: Garnish with slices of fresh apple or pear for an elegant touch.

Storing Harvest Cake

• Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to a week for longer shelf life. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	1 slice (1/12 of the cake)
Calories	320
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	4g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	2g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	30g
Sodium	280mg

Conclusion

Harvest Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fall’s most beloved flavors. With its rich apple-infused batter, warm spices, and sweet icing, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or enjoying a quiet moment at home, Harvest Cake brings warmth and joy to every bite.

FAQs About Harvest Cake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Harvest Cake stays moist and flavorful for days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.

What apples work best?

Sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Can I skip the nuts?

Absolutely! If you have allergies or prefer a nut-free option, simply leave them out.

Is the icing necessary?

The icing adds a sweet finish, but the cake is delicious on its own. You can also dust it with powdered sugar for a simpler topping.