Apple Pie Layer Cake is the ultimate dessert that combines the comforting flavors of traditional apple pie with the elegance of layered cake. This delightful creation is not only simple to make but also incredibly tasty, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat. With layers of moist cake, spiced apple filling, and fluffy frosting, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Medium
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 480
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 68g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 200mg
Why Make Apple Pie Layer Cake
Apple Pie Layer Cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it not just delicious but also a little healthier than your average dessert. The use of Granny Smith apples adds a tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake, and the cinnamon spice offers warmth and comfort, reminiscent of fall gatherings. Plus, this cake’s versatile nature lets you personalize it with your favorite toppings or fillings, making it suitable for any occasion.
How to Make Apple Pie Layer Cake Step by Step
Ingredients
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons (90g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (120mL) vegetable oil
1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup (240g) sour cream, at room temperature
1/2 cup (120mL) milk, at room temperature
6 tablespoons (90g) unsalted butter (for filling)
5 cups (590g) peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith apples
1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar (for filling)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter (for frosting)
3/4 cup (150g) packed brown sugar (for frosting)
1 teaspoon salt
6 cups (780g) powdered sugar, sifted
1/4 cup (60mL) caramel sauce
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
1 cup (130g) powdered sugar (for drip)
3 to 4 tablespoons reserved liquid from cooked apples
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper, dust with flour. Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Cream butter, oil, and sugars until light. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla. Alternate adding dry ingredients with sour cream and milk, starting and ending with dry mix. Mix until just combined. Divide batter into pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Cool completely.
For the apple filling: Cook butter, apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a skillet until apples soften. Strain, reserving apples and liquid separately.
For the frosting: Cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add salt and powdered sugar, mix until dissolved. Beat in caramel sauce and vanilla until smooth.
Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a stand, spread frosting, pipe a border, and add half the apple filling. Repeat with the second layer, then top with the final cake layer and frost the outside.
For the optional drip: Whisk powdered sugar with reserved apple liquid until drizzle consistency. Drip over edges and decorate as desired.
How to Serve Apple Pie Layer Cake
Serve this delightful cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect indulgence. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee to enhance the comforting flavors. It also goes great with a side of fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
How to Store Apple Pie Layer Cake
To store your Apple Pie Layer Cake, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you wish to freeze it, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Be sure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Expert Tips for Cooking Apple Pie Layer Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients for an evenly baked cake.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it enhances the apple flavor and prevents browning.
- To prevent a soggy bottom, ensure your apples are well-drained after cooking.
- Feel free to add nuts or raisins for added texture.
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
Delicious Variations of Apple Pie Layer Cake
For a twist on the classic, consider adding a hint of spice by incorporating nutmeg or ginger into the batter. For a citrusy variation, add orange or lemon zest to the apple filling for a bright flavor. You can also turn this cake into a vegetarian delight by substituting the butter with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Apple Pie Layer Cake is a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet, comforting dessert. The layers of flavor, combined with the delightful texture, make it an unforgettable experience. Give this cake a try, and revel in the deliciousness that it brings to your table!
Apple Pie Layer Cake
Ingredients
For the cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup milk, at room temperature
For the apple filling
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cups peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith apples
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
For the frosting
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the optional drip
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 to 4 tablespoons reserved liquid from cooked apples
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper, then dust with flour.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cream butter, vegetable oil, and both sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients with sour cream and milk, starting and ending with dry mix. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter into prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool completely in pans on wire racks.
Apple Filling
- In a skillet, cook butter, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until apples soften.
- Strain, reserving apples and liquid separately.
Frosting
- In a bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add salt and powdered sugar, mix until well combined.
- Beat in caramel sauce and vanilla extract until smooth.
Assembly
- Place one cake layer on a stand, spread frosting on top, pipe a border, and add half the apple filling.
- Repeat with the second layer, then top with the final cake layer and frost the outside.
Optional Drip
- Whisk powdered sugar with reserved apple liquid until drizzle consistency is achieved.
- Drip over edges of the cake and decorate as desired.
