Name: Southern Apple Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups diced apples; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting

This Southern Apple Cake is everything you want in a cozy dessert: rich, moist, and speckled with tender apples and warm spices. It’s the kind of cake that brings back childhood memories of crisp autumn days and the smell of cinnamon wafting from the kitchen. Perfect with a mug of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake doesn’t need a glaze or frosting to shine—just a dusting of powdered sugar does the trick.

What makes it truly Southern is the generous use of apples, the slight crunch of pecans, and the moist crumb from oil instead of butter. It’s hearty, rustic, and filled with texture in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a Sunday gathering, potluck, or just treating yourself, this cake delivers that comforting, homemade feel.

What Kind of Apples Are Best for Southern Apple Cake?

For the best flavor and texture, go with a combination of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smiths provide a firm texture and tart punch that balances the sweetness of the cake, while something like Fuji or Honeycrisp adds juicy sweetness and depth. Don’t worry about peeling them too perfectly—a few bits of skin give the cake a rustic character.

Ingredients for the Southern Apple Cake

Apples – Fresh, diced apples bring moisture, tartness, and sweetness to every bite.

All-Purpose Flour – The base structure for the cake, giving it that sturdy, sliceable body.

Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar – A mix of white and brown sugars adds sweetness and a hint of caramel richness.

Eggs – Help bind the cake together and add richness.

Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist and soft, even after a few days.

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the warm flavors and ties everything together.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Essential warm spices that create the nostalgic, cozy flavor profile.

Baking Soda & Salt – Baking soda helps with lift; salt balances the sweetness.

Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional) – Add crunch and a nutty Southern flair.

Raisins or Currants (optional) – For those who love little chewy sweet pockets throughout.

Powdered Sugar (for dusting) – A final snowy finish that gives a simple elegance.

How To Make the Southern Apple Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Add the oil and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Fold Everything Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. The batter will be thick. Fold in the chopped apples, nuts, and raisins or currants if using.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

How to Serve and Store Southern Apple Cake

This cake is at its best when served slightly warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic Southern treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce can take it up another notch for special occasions.

To store, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices—just wrap them well and they’ll last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven to bring back the just-baked texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the apples from sinking to the bottom?

The batter for this cake is thick, which helps suspend the apples throughout. Make sure your apple pieces are evenly chopped—not too big—and gently fold them into the batter right before baking.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Make it the night before and store covered at room temp or in the fridge.

Can I use a bundt pan instead of a 9×13?

Yes, but be sure to grease the pan thoroughly and adjust baking time. It may take closer to 70–75 minutes. Keep an eye on the center doneness.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

For a quick warm-up, microwave a slice for about 20–30 seconds. To crisp the edges, use a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.

Can I substitute the oil with butter?

You can, but the texture will be a bit more dense. Oil gives this cake its moist, tender crumb that stays soft for days.

Do I have to add nuts or raisins?

Not at all. They’re totally optional. The base cake is delicious on its own, but feel free to mix and match according to your taste.

Want More Cake Ideas?

If this Southern Apple Cake hit the spot, you might fall in love with these other comforting and creative cakes:

• Amish Applesauce Cake – Soft, moist, and filled with apple-cinnamon warmth.
• Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie – A silky-smooth, nostalgic dessert.
• Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake – Decadent and buttery with a caramel twist.
• Bonnies Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake – Rich and indulgent, perfect for chocoholics.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – A fruity, creamy dessert with minimal effort.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add pecans or go nut-free? Try it with a caramel drizzle or stick with powdered sugar?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

More cozy dessert inspiration shared daily at my Pinterest: Life with Jam