Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking, allowing for easy removal after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups sugar, 3 large eggs, 1 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy, indicating that the ingredients are well integrated.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and ready to blend with the wet ingredients.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stir gently until you see no dry flour.
Fold in 4 cups peeled and finely chopped tart apples and 1 cup chopped pecans. This step is crucial as it incorporates the fruit and nuts, which will add flavor and texture to your cake.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a lovely presentation.
Bake for about 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake, as ovens may vary in temperature.
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to transfer.
While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese and 2 tablespoons butter using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon half-and-half or milk, and 2 cups confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. This adds a rich, creamy layer that complements the cake beautifully.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. But I doubt there will be any!
