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Fluffy Classic Apple Cake with Vanilla Glaze

fluffy classic apple cake - featured image

A light, airy apple cake made with separated eggs for maximum fluffiness, topped with a creamy vanilla glaze. This reliable dessert uses simple pantry ingredients and is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 23 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  4. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, adding the vanilla extract after the second yolk. Mix until just combined.
  5. Reduce mixer speed to low. Add the dry ingredients in three additions, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form.
  7. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in two additions using a spatula. Then, gently fold in the diced apples.
  8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. While the cake cools, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cake before serving.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melted. Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to avoid a tough cake. Make sure the bowl for egg whites is completely grease-free to ensure proper whipping. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; do not refrigerate.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cake, vanilla glaze, fluffy cake, homemade dessert, easy baking, fall recipes, comfort food