Name: The Best Jewish Apple Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h 45 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 3 Fuji apples (peeled, cored & sliced 1/4-inch thick); 1 heaping teaspoon all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 3 cups all-purpose flour (preferably King Arthur); 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup olive oil (not extra-virgin); 4 eggs; 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 cup orange juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 11 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your grandmother, look no further. The Best Jewish Apple Cake Recipe is a timeless classic that perfectly balances tender, moist cake with tender cinnamon-spiced apples nestled throughout. With simple pantry staples coming together in a way that creates something truly magical, this cake is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, comfort, and pure delight in every bite. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy weekend treat, this apple cake never fails to impress and become everyone’s favorite.

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up image of a two-layer cake slice placed on a white plate with ridged edges, set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is light yellow and spongy with a smooth texture. The middle layer is a thin band of soft, slightly darker filling with a cinnamon tone. The top layer is thicker, light yellow spongy cake, with an uneven, browned, caramelized crust sprinkled lightly with sugar and cinnamon. The cake edge is rounded and crumbly, showing a soft inside and slightly rough crust. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find and work harmoniously to create a cake with the ideal texture, sweetness, and warm flavor. Each one has a special role—from the tart, juicy Fuji apples to the rich olive oil that keeps the crumb tender.

3 Fuji apples (peeled, cored & sliced ¼-inch thick): These provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness and keep their shape nicely when baked.
1 heaping teaspoon all-purpose flour: Tossed with the apples to prevent excess moisture and sogginess in the cake.
¾ cup sugar: Combined with cinnamon to create a flavorful sprinkle that enhances the apples.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warm spice and elevates the apple flavor beautifully.
3 cups all-purpose flour (preferably King Arthur): The structure of the cake depends on a reliable, high-quality flour.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the cake just the right lift without overpowering texture.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake batter itself for a perfectly moist and tender crumb.
1 cup olive oil (not extra-virgin): Keeps the cake tender and provides a subtle richness without overpowering.
4 eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding richness and helping the cake rise.
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
¼ cup orange juice: Adds a subtle hint of citrus that brightens the cake’s flavor profile.

How to Make The Best Jewish Apple Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your Fuji apples into beautiful crescent moons about ¼-inch thick. This ensures even cooking and a lovely texture. To keep things tidy and prevent sogginess later, toss those slices gently with a heaping teaspoon of flour—it’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

Combine ¾ cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. The cinnamon sugar will be sprinkled intermittently throughout the cake layers, adding little pockets of sweet, spicy crunch and making every bite a delight.

Step 3: Whip the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, olive oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange juice until the batter is smooth and uniform. If you’re using a stand mixer, stop once or twice to scrape down the bowl to ensure everything is fully incorporated. This silky batter is the canvas for your apples to shine.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake Layers

Grease your 10-inch tube pan thoroughly, including the center tube, using baking spray. Pour half of the batter into the pan first. Then divide your cinnamon sugar into four portions—sprinkle one over the batter. Next, layer half of your apple slices in a circular pattern to cover the cake batter evenly and sprinkle another portion of cinnamon sugar on top.

Step 5: Repeat and Finish Assembly

Pour the remaining batter on top of the apple layer, then sprinkle the third portion of cinnamon sugar. Arrange most of the remaining apple slices on top and finish with the last of the cinnamon sugar. This layering technique ensures every forkful is bursting with flavor and texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 90 minutes up to 1 hour and 45 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the 90-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the cake’s center—it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. The low-and-slow bake allows the apples to soften gracefully without drying out the crumb.

Step 7: Cool and Unmold

Once baked, let the cake rest in the pan for 20 minutes on a wire rack. This rest lets the cake settle, making it easier to remove without cracking. Using a plate and oven mitts, invert the pan onto the plate and carefully remove the bottom if possible. Then flip the cake right-side up on a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve The Best Jewish Apple Cake Recipe

A round apple cake with one thick layer of golden-brown cake topped with a layer of thin apple slices arranged in a slightly overlapping circular pattern, the apple slices have a light brown cinnamon or spice coating. The cake edges are raised and evenly browned. The cake sits on a clear glass cake stand with a decorative edge, and everything is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar is a simple yet stunning way to finish this cake, highlighting the beautiful apple layers. For a bit more indulgence, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy contrast to the warm spices and tender apples.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee for afternoon tea time, but it’s also fabulous alongside a fresh fruit salad or even a sharp cheddar cheese plate to balance the sweetness if you want to get creative.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices of the apple cake on rustic wooden boards for a charming, homey vibe. Alternatively, use individual ramekins filled with warm cake topped with caramel drizzle for an elegant, personalized dessert at dinner parties. This cake is versatile and always looks inviting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the cake loosely with foil at room temperature to preserve moisture without causing sogginess. It stays fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for making ahead if you want to spread the joy over several days.

Freezing

This apple cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a microwave for about 20 seconds or warm the whole cake in an oven at low heat (around 275 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10–15 minutes. This refreshes the cake’s moistness and warmth, just like it came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this cake?

Absolutely! While Fuji apples are ideal for their balance of sweetness and firmness, you can substitute with Granny Smith for a tarter bite or Honeycrisp for a nice sweet crunch. Just be mindful that cooking times and flavors will vary slightly.

Why use olive oil instead of butter?

Olive oil keeps the cake wonderfully moist and tender while adding a subtle depth of flavor without heaviness. It also makes this cake slightly lighter and perfect for those who might be dairy-sensitive.

Is it necessary to toss the apples in flour?

Yes, this step helps absorb excess apple juices during baking, preventing the cake from becoming soggy. It also helps the apples stay nicely distributed throughout the batter.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

While this traditional recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking. Just be prepared for slight changes in texture, and be sure to include some xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already have it.

How long does the cake keep its best flavor?

For optimal freshness and taste, enjoy within four days of baking. After that, it can start to lose its moist texture, although it will still be tasty if properly stored.

Final Thoughts

This is more than just a cake—it’s a heartwarming tradition you can share with your family and friends. I hope you give The Best Jewish Apple Cake Recipe a try because every moist slice truly feels like home. Once you taste it, I bet it becomes your go-to recipe for celebrations and cozy afternoons!