Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 5×5-inch baking dish with butter and set it on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any overflow. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the egg, then add the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Add the milk and mix on medium speed until the batter is smooth.
Fold the chopped apples into the batter using a rubber spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for 10 minutes. Serve directly from the dish or invert onto a plate. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Use Real Butter: For the best flavor and texture, stick with real butter—not margarine.
Softened Butter: Properly softened butter is essential. Press it with your finger—if it makes an easy indentation but still holds its shape, it’s ready.
Creaming Matters: Beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step creates a smooth texture in the cake. Aim for 2-3 minutes, depending on your mixer speed.
Measure Flour Correctly: Fluff the flour before measuring, spoon it into your measuring cup, and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag to prevent adding too much flour.
Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is baking at the correct temperature. Many ovens run slightly hot or cold, which can affect baking results.