Cocoa Apple Cake

This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that works well for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or even a cozy evening at home. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, attending a potluck, or simply looking to indulge in something special, the Cocoa Apple Delight Cake shines as a versatile option. Its moist texture and rich taste can elevate any meal, serving as a delightful ending or a comforting snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Discover the Cocoa Apple Delight Cake, a delicious blend of rich cocoa and fresh apples that will delight your taste buds. This moist, flavorful dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a cozy night in. With the health benefits of apples and cocoa, you can indulge guilt-free. Learn about the essential ingredients, and follow easy step-by-step instructions to create this tasty treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Enjoy the joy of baking!

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Ingredients

2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

½ tsp ground cinnamon

Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Prepare Apples: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples with the ground cinnamon. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In another large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until combined.

Incorporate Buttermilk: Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the spiced apples and chopped nuts (if using) into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan while leveling the top with a spatula.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then flip it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Dust and Serve: If desired, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before slicing. Serve it plain or with whipped cream for an extra treat!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | 8-10 servings