Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the 9-inch round cake pan.

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them in a bowl with a teaspoon of sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon (if using) to enhance their flavor. Set aside.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the sliced apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top.

Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before slicing. Serve it plain, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Variations

Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.

Dried Fruits: Substitute some of the apples with dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.