Apple Picnic Cake

When the weather warms up and the sun shines brightly, there’s nothing quite like a delightful apple picnic cake to celebrate the joy of outdoor gatherings. This scrumptious cake is a perfect blend of sweet apples, warm spices, and a tender crumb that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds. Whether you’re planning a weekend picnic or simply want to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness, this apple picnic cake is bound to be a hit.

**Apple Picnic Cake**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts, if using, until evenly distributed in the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
11. Slice the apple picnic cake and serve at your picnic or enjoy it as a delightful treat at home.

This apple picnic cake is a wonderful addition to any outdoor gathering or a cozy afternoon tea with loved ones. The combination of tender cake, juicy apples, and warm spices creates a delightful flavor that will surely impress your guests. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite nuts or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent touch. So, grab a slice, soak up the sunshine, and savor the simple pleasures of life with this delicious apple picnic cake!