There's something irresistibly cozy about a slice of Apple Dapple Cake fresh out of the oven. This moist, spiced cake, brimming with juicy apples and topped with a gooey caramel-like glaze, is the perfect way to celebrate fall.

I first discovered Apple Dapple Cake at a local fall festival, where its warm, spiced aroma and dense texture won me over instantly. Now, it’s become a staple at family gatherings, and each bite transports me back to that crisp autumn day.

Let’s dive into what makes this cake so special, from its delicious ingredients to the easy baking steps that yield a perfect treat every time.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Dapple Cake

Get ready to add a new fall favorite to your recipe box! This Apple Dapple Cake is easy to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for cozy afternoons or special gatherings.

First and foremost, this cake is incredibly moist and flavorful. Thanks to the fresh apples and brown sugar, each bite is rich and tender without being overly sweet.

The simple ingredients make this cake both affordable and accessible. Chances are, you already have most of what you need in your pantry, making it a great option for last-minute baking.

One of the best parts? It’s fuss-free and forgiving! You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques, making it a stress-free baking project that yields delicious results.

And finally, let’s not forget the signature caramel glaze. Poured over the cake while it’s still warm, the glaze soaks into every nook and cranny, adding a luscious, gooey finish.

Ingredients Notes

This Apple Dapple Cake relies on a few key ingredients to create its distinct flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each component essential to this delicious dessert.

Apples: Fresh apples are the star of this cake. I recommend using a tart, firm variety like Granny Smith, which holds up well during baking and adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness. You can also try Honeycrisp or Fuji for a slightly sweeter cake.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness that complements the apples beautifully. This cake uses a generous amount, which contributes to its rich, moist texture.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices give the cake its cozy, autumnal flavor. Just a touch of each is enough to enhance the apples without overwhelming them.
Vegetable Oil: Instead of butter, this cake calls for vegetable oil, which keeps it extra moist. If you prefer, you can substitute an equal amount of melted coconut oil for a hint of added flavor.
Eggs: The eggs add structure and stability, helping the cake rise while keeping it light and fluffy. For a more tender crumb, let the eggs come to room temperature before mixing.

No special equipment is required! Just a large mixing bowl, a whisk, and a 9x13-inch baking dish or bundt pan, and you’re ready to go.

How to Make This Apple Dapple Cake

This Apple Dapple Cake comes together quickly, with just a few simple steps. Let’s walk through it to make sure you get the best results possible.

Prep the Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and chopping your apples into small, even pieces. This ensures that every slice of cake will have tender, juicy bites of apple throughout.
Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs, whisking until smooth. Then add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped apples to ensure they’re evenly distributed.
Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan or bundt pan and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 50-60 minutes. The cake should be golden-brown on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Prepare the Glaze: While the cake bakes, make the glaze by combining butter, brown sugar, and a splash of milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until everything is melted and smooth, then bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Glaze the Cake: When the cake comes out of the oven, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the top. Pour the warm glaze over the cake, letting it seep into each hole for maximum flavor.

Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing, allowing the glaze to set slightly. The result is a tender, ultra-moist cake with a caramel-like finish on top!

Storage Options

This Apple Dapple Cake stays fresh and moist, making it ideal for storing and enjoying over a few days. Here’s how to keep it tasting its best:

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The glaze keeps it from drying out, so each bite stays tender and delicious.
Refrigeration: If you prefer to keep it longer, place the cake in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving, as the glaze may firm up when chilled.
Freezing: This cake also freezes well! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave gently for a quick, sweet treat.

Variations and Substitutions

This Apple Dapple Cake is versatile enough to be customized to your taste. Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions to try:

Nuts: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.
Applesauce: Substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce the fat content slightly while keeping the cake moist.
Spice Up the Flavor: For an extra-spiced version, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the batter. It’ll add a little kick that enhances the fall flavors even more.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. This cake adapts well to gluten-free versions without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Vegan Version: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as a replacement for each egg, and swap the butter in the glaze for vegan butter or coconut oil.

No matter how you make it, this cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy each slice with a cup of coffee or tea, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your baking rotation!