Imagine a slice of pure autumn magic that fills your kitchen with warming spices and the comforting aroma of fresh apples! This Fall Chai Apple Cake is more than just a dessert - it's a cozy embrace of seasonal flavors that will transport you to crisp autumn afternoons, with every bite promising a delightful blend of sweet apples, aromatic chai spices, and tender cake perfection. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a luxurious homemade dessert, this recipe is about to become your new fall favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Gently fold in diced apples and chopped nuts (if using), distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips
- • Choose firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor • Make sure your butter is truly softened (not melted) for the perfect cake consistency • Don't overmix the batter - mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender • For extra moisture, you can substitute some of the butter with applesauce • Let the cake cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices • Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness • For a more intense chai flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger to the spice mix • Toast the nuts before adding them to the batter for an enhanced nutty flavor
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 60mg
