Rustic Apple Pecan Cake

This rustic apple pecan cake is loaded with fresh apples, crunchy pecans, and warm, buttery flavor in every bite. Perfectly moist and gently spiced, it’s a cozy, comforting bake for any season—delicious on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm and cozy flavors – Perfect for autumn or any time you crave comfort.
• Easy ingredients – Pantry staples and a couple of fresh apples.
• One-bowl batter – Quick and simple to mix.
• Cast iron or springform friendly – Flexible baking options.
• Versatile topping – Great with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups raw pecan halves
• 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced
• 1 large sweet red apple (like Fuji or Gala), peeled and thinly sliced

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet or a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk sugar, melted butter, eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Stir in dry ingredients just until combined. Fold in diced Granny Smith apple and 1 cup chopped pecans.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan. Arrange sliced red apple on top and sprinkle remaining pecans.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool before slicing. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal
Servings: 10 servings

Variations

• Add spice: Mix in 1 teaspoon cinnamon or apple pie spice to the dry ingredients.
• Swap nuts: Use walnuts or almonds in place of pecans.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Citrus twist: Add orange zest for a fresh touch.
• Caramel topping: Drizzle with warm caramel sauce before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheat: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes great the next day and stores well.

What kind of apples are best?

Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji or Gala for sweetness.

Can I skip the pecans?

Yes, or substitute with another nut or dried fruit.

What pan should I use if I don’t have cast iron?

A springform or 9-inch round cake pan works well.

Is Greek yogurt necessary?

It adds moisture and richness, but you can use sour cream instead.

Can I add spices?

Definitely. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves work well here.

How do I know when it’s done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I make this into muffins?

Yes, bake in a muffin tin for 18–22 minutes.

Does this cake need frosting?

Nope! It’s delicious as-is, but whipped cream or glaze is a great addition.

Can I serve this warm?

Absolutely. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

This Rustic Apple Pecan Cake brings together the flavors of fall in a simple, satisfying way. With its tender crumb, fresh apples, and nutty crunch, it’s the kind of dessert that feels like home in every bite.

Rustic Apple Pecan Cake

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• Author: Chef Clara
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Rustic Apple Pecan Cake is a cozy, moist dessert loaded with apples, pecans, and warm buttery flavor—perfect for fall or any season!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup salted butter, melted

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 2 cups raw pecan halves (divided: 1 cup chopped, 1 cup whole for topping)

• 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced

• 1 large sweet red apple (Fuji or Gala), peeled and thinly sliced

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat to 350°F (177°C).

  • Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet or a 9-inch springform pan.

• Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.

• Combine Wet Ingredients:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk sugar, melted butter, eggs, yogurt, and vanilla until smooth.

• Assemble the Batter:

  • Stir in the dry ingredients just until combined.

  • Fold in diced Granny Smith apple and 1 cup chopped pecans.

• Decorate & Bake:

  • Pour batter into the prepared pan.

  • Arrange sliced red apple on top and sprinkle with remaining pecans.

  • Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

 

• Cool & Serve:

  • Let cool before slicing.

  • Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

Notes

• You can use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for extra richness.

• Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2–3 days.

 

• Tastes even better the next day!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American