Apple Raisin Cake: The Ultimate Recipe for Fall Baking

Apple Raisin Cake: just the name conjures up images of cozy autumn afternoons, the scent of cinnamon wafting through the air, and a warm, comforting slice melting in your mouth. Have you ever wondered why this simple cake has remained a beloved classic for generations? It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of home, a slice of nostalgia, and a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, wholesome ingredients.

While the exact origins of Apple Raisin Cake are difficult to pinpoint, variations of fruit-studded cakes have been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures. Apples, readily available in many regions, have long been a staple in baking, and the addition of raisins provides a delightful sweetness and chewy texture that perfectly complements the tartness of the apples. Think of it as a culinary hug, a dish that transcends trends and fads.

People adore this cake for its incredible versatility and comforting qualities. It’s easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. The moist, tender crumb, the burst of sweetness from the raisins, and the subtle spice notes create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea, as a simple dessert after dinner, or even for breakfast (we won’t judge!), Apple Raisin Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, let’s get baking and create a little bit of magic in your kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3 cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix work well!)
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• For the Crumble Topping (Optional, but highly recommended!):
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• For the Glaze (Optional):
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or apple cider
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Preparing the Apple Raisin Cake

1. Preheat and Prep: First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easy to remove later. You can also use baking spray with flour if you prefer.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisking is important to evenly distribute the baking soda and spices, ensuring a consistent flavor and rise. Set this bowl aside for now.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cake.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. So, add about 1/3 of the dry ingredients, then 1/2 of the buttermilk, then another 1/3 of the dry ingredients, the remaining buttermilk, and finally the last 1/3 of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a less tender crumb.
6. Fold in Apples, Raisins, and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped apples, raisins, and walnuts (if using). Make sure the apples and raisins are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Making the Crumble Topping (Optional)

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the crumble topping.
2. Cut in Butter: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients. You can also use a food processor for this step, pulsing until the mixture reaches the desired consistency.
3. Sprinkle Over Cake: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cake batter in the pan.

Baking the Apple Raisin Cake

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 45 minutes. The cake should be golden brown on top.
2. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from breaking apart while it’s still warm and delicate.

Preparing the Glaze (Optional)

1. Whisk Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or apple cider), and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Add more milk or apple cider, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.
2. Drizzle Over Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. You can also use a spoon to spread the glaze if you prefer a thicker coating.

Tips and Variations

• Apple Varieties: As mentioned earlier, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of apples work great in this cake. Feel free to experiment with other apple varieties as well. Braeburn, Fuji, and Gala apples are also good choices.
• Nut Options: If you’re not a fan of walnuts or pecans, you can omit them altogether or substitute them with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a little more. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger for extra warmth.
• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup and then filling it with milk to reach 1 cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: This apple raisin cake is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A warm cup of coffee or tea is the perfect accompaniment.
• Make it Gluten-Free: To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients.
• Add a Caramel Drizzle: For an extra decadent treat, drizzle the cake with caramel sauce after glazing it.
• Individual Cakes: You can also bake this recipe in muffin tins to make individual apple raisin cakes. Reduce the baking time accordingly.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Raisin Cake!

Conclusion:

This Apple Raisin Cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a nostalgic trip to grandma’s kitchen, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. The moist, tender crumb, the sweet bursts of juicy raisins, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples baking in the oven – it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for a second slice before you even finish the first. Trust me, this is one recipe you absolutely need in your repertoire.

But what truly elevates this cake to must-try status is its versatility. It’s perfect as is, enjoyed with a simple cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. However, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! For a truly decadent experience, try serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream is simply divine.

Looking for variations? You’ve got plenty of options! If you’re a fan of nuts, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and flavor. A sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top before baking will create a beautiful, caramelized crust. For a more intense apple flavor, consider using a mix of different apple varieties, such as Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. You could even add a touch of apple cider to the batter for an extra boost of apple goodness.

And for those who love a little spice, a pinch of nutmeg or cloves will add a warm, festive touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try soaking the raisins in rum or brandy before adding them to the batter for a boozy twist. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly if you make any significant changes to the recipe.

This Apple Raisin Cake is also incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and rewarding to make. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions ensure a successful bake every time.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. Don’t just take my word for it – experience the magic of this cake for yourself! Bake it for your family, bring it to a potluck, or simply enjoy it as a well-deserved treat.

Once you’ve made this Apple Raisin Cake, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. So go ahead, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a cake that will become a cherished family favorite. Happy baking!