There’s something absolutely irresistible about the aroma of spiced apples and toasted almonds wafting through the kitchen as you bake this Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake (Gluten-Free). This cake is a celebration of cozy comfort: lusciously soft crumb, naturally sweetened, and so wholesome you could enjoy it for breakfast or dessert. The combination of almond flour and a touch of coconut flour gives the cake its signature tender texture, while juicy apples and a hint of cinnamon offer that classic autumn-in-a-slice taste. If you’re searching for a treat that feels indulgent but fits into a gluten-free, dairy-free lifestyle, you’ll want to bookmark this recipe forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this cake is how it transforms simple pantry staples into something extraordinary. Every ingredient has its own role to play, from creating an airy crumb to infusing that unmistakable apple flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some handy tips and tricks.
- Almond flour: The star of the show, almond flour is what keeps the cake moist, fluffy, and gluten-free—use finely ground for the best texture.
- Coconut flour: Just a touch helps absorb excess moisture and brings a delicate, subtle sweetness.
- Gluten-free baking powder: Gives the cake lift, ensuring it’s light and not dense.
- Baking soda: Reacts with the acidity in the sweetener to create extra tenderness.
- Ground cinnamon: A must with apples—adds a warm, comforting spice to every bite.
- Salt: Just a pinch makes all the flavors pop and keeps things perfectly balanced.
- Eggs: These bind everything together and provide structure for a fluffy crumb.
- Honey or maple syrup: Natural sweetness and moisture; pick your favorite for a subtle flavor difference.
- Melted coconut oil: Keeps the cake moist while making it dairy-free.
- Vanilla extract: Adds that bakery-fresh aroma and rounds out the flavors.
- Peeled and diced apple: Juicy bits throughout the batter—choose a crisp, flavorful apple for best results.
- Apple slices for topping: For a beautiful finish and a hint of caramelized apple on top.
- Sliced almonds (optional): Sprinkle on top for extra crunch and almond flavor.
How to Make Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake (Gluten-Free)
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan with a bit of coconut oil or line it with parchment paper so your moist, fluffy almond flour apple cake releases without a hitch. Prepping the pan first means you can pop your batter straight in with no delay!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, gluten-free baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly blended. This step not only distributes the cinnamon and leaveners but breaks up any clumps, so your cake batter will mix up nice and smooth.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, beat the eggs, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until thick and creamy. This mixture adds all the moisture and sweetness, creating the luscious base for your moist, fluffy almond flour apple cake (gluten-free).
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently, just until everything is combined and you don’t see any flour streaks. Overmixing can toughen the texture, so keep it light and gentle for the fluffiest crumb.
Step 5: Add Apples and Fill the Pan
Fold the diced apple into the batter so you get little juicy bits all throughout the cake. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Arrange the thin apple slices over the top in a pretty pattern, and sprinkle with sliced almonds for extra flair if you like.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Let the cake cool completely in the pan—this sets the crumb and makes slicing super clean and easy. Get ready for your kitchen to smell downright heavenly.
How to Serve Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake (Gluten-Free)
Garnishes
For a little pop of color and extra indulgence, try dusting the cooled cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a scoop of thick Greek yogurt or coconut whipped cream. The sliced almonds and apple pattern on top already make this cake a showstopper, but a handful of pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of warm honey can take it over the top.
Side Dishes
Serve a slice of this moist, fluffy almond flour apple cake (gluten-free) alongside a mug of chai, a fresh fruit salad, or a dollop of vanilla yogurt for a lovely breakfast or snack. For dessert, pair with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or stewed berries to complement the spiced apple flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this cake into a festive centerpiece by baking it in a decorative tart tin for ruffled edges, or make mini cakes in muffin cups for a brunch party. Try layering slices with a tangy yogurt or mascarpone filling for an apple cake trifle, or scatter candied walnuts on top just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five days. The texture stays tender, and the apple flavor actually deepens with time!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this moist, fluffy almond flour apple cake (gluten-free)! Let the cake cool completely, then wrap whole or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. It’ll keep beautifully for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature or gently in the microwave before enjoying.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or heat gently in the oven at 300°F. This brings back that tender crumb and makes the apples taste extra cozy.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Eggs are key for the structure and fluffiness of this cake, but you can experiment with flax eggs for a vegan version! Just note the texture may be a little denser, though still delicious.
What’s the best type Dessert, Breakfast
Crisp and slightly tart apples, like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady, work beautifully here. They hold their shape while baking and add a lovely brightness against the sweet batter.
Can I swap the almond flour for another gluten-free flour?
Almond flour is truly unique in providing moisture and a tender crumb, so swapping it out could affect the texture. If you have a nut allergy, try sunflower seed flour, but be aware the flavor and crumb will change.
How do I know when the cake is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs. If the top is golden and the edges begin to pull away from the pan, you’re set!
Is this cake sweet enough for dessert?
Absolutely! The naturally sweetened batter, plus the juicy apple chunks, makes this moist, fluffy almond flour apple cake (gluten-free) perfect for both a treat and a not-too-heavy breakfast or snack.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, super satisfying dessert, give the Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake (Gluten-Free) a whirl. It’s one of those magical recipes that feels fancy without the effort, and every bite is guaranteed to bring a smile. I can’t wait for you to experience just how delicious gluten-free baking can be!
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Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake (Gluten-Free) Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this delightful Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake that’s not only gluten-free but also incredibly scrumptious. Loaded with almond flour, fresh apples, and a hint of cinnamon, this cake is perfect for both breakfast and dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1 teaspoon gluten-free baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
- 1/2 medium apple, thinly sliced for topping
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare an 8-inch round cake pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs, honey/maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Mix wet and dry ingredients, then fold in diced apple. Pour batter into the pan.
- Add toppings: Arrange apple slices on top, sprinkle with almonds if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This cake is naturally sweetened and versatile for any time of day.
- Pair with Greek yogurt or whipped cream for a delightful treat.
- Try using pears instead of apples for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
