
This is an easy cake to make but it tastes best in the fall when you can use fresh apples. I prefer granny smiths in this recipe to keep the cake from getting too sweet. I also serve it warm with vanilla ice cream and caramel syrup. But it also tastes great as a coffee cake for breakfast.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray. (I use coconut or avocado oil since they don't add any weird flavors to the cake) You can also use a 9" springform pan, if you prefer.
In large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Blend until light and fluffy. Then beat in the eggs, one at a time, but do not overheat or else the eggs will get tough.
With a large spoon, stir in the vanilla, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Then fold in the apples and pecans. Pour into the prepared pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 - 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool on a baking rack for 10-15 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.