Prepare the Oven and Pans:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, maple syrup, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure the ricotta is well-incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

3. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before combining with the wet ingredients.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

4. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.

Add Apples:

5. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Cake:

6. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the cake begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Cool and Serve:

7. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cake has cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant finish (optional).