Introduction
Fresh Apple Crazy Cake is a simple, yet delicious dessert that proves you don’t need eggs, milk, or butter to create a moist and flavorful cake. Made with wholesome ingredients, this cake relies on fresh apples for natural sweetness and moisture, while vinegar and baking soda provide the perfect lift. It’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions, or anyone who wants a lighter, more plant-based cake. It’s easy to make and is ideal for a cozy family dessert or an afternoon treat with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh apples, peeled and grated (about 1-2 medium apples)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the grated apples, vanilla extract, white vinegar, vegetable oil, and water to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple finish, if desired.
Description
This Fresh Apple Crazy Cake is light, moist, and incredibly flavorful, with the natural sweetness of apples shining through. The absence of eggs, milk, and butter doesn’t compromise the cake’s tenderness or taste. The cake is slightly spiced with cinnamon, making it the perfect dessert for any season, especially in the fall when apples are in season. With its minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a great recipe to try when you need a quick and easy cake that fits dietary needs.
Tips
If you want an extra flavor boost, add a handful of chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter.
Ensure the apples are finely grated to help maintain the cake’s moist texture.
The cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
For a lighter version, try substituting half of the vegetable oil with applesauce.
The vinegar helps the baking soda react, making the cake rise without the need for eggs, so don’t skip this ingredient.
Variations
Spicy Apple Crazy Cake: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves for a deeper spice flavor that complements the apples.
Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled cake for a sweet and rich topping.
Apple and Pear Crazy Cake: Use a combination of apples and pears for a unique twist.
Gluten-free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten.
Corrections
If the cake seems a little dense, try grating the apples more finely or increasing the water by 1/4 cup.
If you prefer a more pronounced apple flavor, add a bit more grated apple (up to 1 1/2 cups) to the batter.
Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures vary. The cake should be golden and firm to the touch when done.
Enjoy!
Once the cake has cooled, cut into squares and enjoy this moist, egg-free, dairy-free treat. It’s simple, wholesome, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or enjoying a slice with a cup of tea, Fresh Apple Crazy Cake is sure to be a hit!