Name: Apple Cake Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 small Gala apples (1 and ½ cup shredded apples and ¾ cup chopped apples); ½ teaspoon lemon juice; 210 g (1 and ½ cup) all-purpose flour (dip and sweep); 2 and ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; ⅛ teaspoon salt (optional); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 105 g (½ cup) granulated sugar; 75 g (⅓ cup) olive oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 60 g (½ cup) walnuts, roughly chopped into small pieces

If you are craving a cozy, sweet treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly afternoon, look no further than this delightful Apple Cake Loaf Recipe. Combining the natural sweetness of Gala apples with fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this loaf strikes the perfect balance between moist, tender crumb and a slight crunch from walnuts. It’s a recipe that brings a slice of autumn into your kitchen any time of year, capturing the comforting flavors of fresh apples in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this Apple Cake Loaf Recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side shots of a clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface. The left side displays two raw egg yolks with bright yellow-orange color sitting in the bowl, along with a pile of white sugar and a silver metal whisk resting on the ingredients. The right side shows the mixture after being whisked, where the eggs and sugar have blended into a light yellow, frothy liquid with bubbles on top, and the whisk is still inside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Apple Cake Loaf Recipe lies in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a key role in forming the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma—from the tender, shredded apples that keep the loaf moist, to the fragrant warming spices that evoke cozy vibes.

3 small Gala apples: Using both shredded and chopped apples adds incredible texture and bursts of fresh apple flavor throughout the loaf.
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice: Keeps the chopped apples fresh and adds a subtle tang that brightens the sweetness.
210 g (1 ½ cup) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure; be sure to dip and sweep for an accurate measure to ensure perfect crumb.
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the loaf a gentle lift without making it overly airy.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and aroma.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds complexity and a cozy nutty note.
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way in amplifying the spice profile beautifully.
1/8 teaspoon salt (optional): Balances sweetness and elevates the flavors.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients and contribute to the moisture and richness.
105 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the natural apple essence.
75 g (1/3 cup) olive oil: Adds moistness and a subtle depth; you won’t even notice the olive oil flavor!
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and gives a lovely fragrant finish.
60 g (1/2 cup) walnuts: Provides a satisfying crunch and earthy contrast to the soft cake.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Apple Cake Loaf Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Apples

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 8 1/2 by 4 1/2 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of overhang on each side to help lift the cake later. Alternatively, you can simply grease and flour the pan if you prefer. Then, peel and core your Gala apples. Grate two of them into a bowl and chop the third into about 0.5 cm thick pieces. Toss the chopped apples in lemon juice to keep them fresh and prevent browning, setting both aside for later use.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (measured carefully by dip and sweep), baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt if you choose to use it. Give these a good mix so that the spices are evenly distributed, ensuring every bite of your Apple Cake Loaf Recipe is perfectly spiced!

Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Sugar, Then Add Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs just until combined; you want the mixture light but not overly beaten. Then stir in the olive oil and vanilla extract, whisking gently until everything is incorporated. These wet ingredients will bring the batter together beautifully, creating a tender cake crumb.

Step 4: Incorporate Apples and Dry Ingredients

Next, mix in the shredded grated apples, making sure to leave behind any excess liquid to avoid a soggy batter. Begin adding the dry flour mixture in two batches, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon after the initial whisk mixing. This gradual process helps keep the batter light and prevents overmixing. Finally, fold in the chopped apples (again, without excess liquid) and the roughly chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan; the texture should be thick but spoonable. Smooth the top gently, then pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Patience is key here—once out of the oven, keep the loaf in the pan for roughly 1 ½ hours to cool completely. This helps your slices hold their shape when cutting.

How to Serve Apple Cake Loaf Recipe

The image shows two side-by-side views of a banana bread batter and the finished banana bread. On the left is a rectangular pan lined with white parchment paper filled with a thick, light tan batter with small, pale chunks mixed throughout, creating a lumpy texture. On the right is the fully baked loaf, golden brown on top with a rough, cracked surface that reveals a soft inside. The bread is still in the same pan with parchment paper lining visible at the edges. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This Apple Cake Loaf Recipe shines wonderfully on its own, but adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can make it extra special. You might also try a light spread of butter or cream cheese frosting for a luscious touch that elevates this humble loaf into a dessert-worthy star.

Side Dishes

Pair slices with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a smooth latte. If you’re serving it for brunch, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside gives a creamy contrast that’s simply irresistible. Fresh fruit or a small green salad can also balance this sweet treat beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve slices on rustic wooden boards or vintage plates to match the homey vibe of this Apple Cake Loaf Recipe. You can add a few extra walnut halves on top for texture and visual appeal or cut the loaf into mini slices for a delightful party platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover slices of your Apple Cake Loaf Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and moist so you can enjoy them as if they were just baked.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep this treat longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, they last well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

To revive the soft texture and warm the flavors, gently reheat slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the loaf.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this Apple Cake Loaf Recipe?

Absolutely! While Gala apples provide a lovely sweetness and texture, you can substitute with Granny Smith for a tarter flavor or Honeycrisp for extra juiciness—just keep in mind how much moisture they might add to adjust accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy a gluten-free version without compromising the texture too much. Just be sure to use a blend designed for baking.

Could I use vegetable oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, vegetable or canola oil will work just fine and yield a neutral flavor, but olive oil adds a subtle richness that complements the spices and apples beautifully in this Apple Cake Loaf Recipe.

Why is it important to cool the loaf before slicing?

Cooling the loaf completely in the pan helps the moisture redistribute evenly, so the slices hold together well when cut, preventing a crumbly or mushy texture.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?

Definitely! Pecans or almonds make great swaps for walnuts, and dried cranberries or raisins add a touch of chewiness and bursts of sweetness if you want to experiment.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cake Loaf Recipe is one of those wonderful finds that feel both comforting and exciting to bake. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try it out soon—you might just find yourself reaching for this apple goodness time and again, sharing it with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment of pure deliciousness.