Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute. And for a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts without compromising the cake’s texture.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and walnuts (if using) gently with a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve.
Pro tip from my kitchen: ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting the frosting to achieve a silky smooth texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International