Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan or a 10-cup Bundt pan. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_0]
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and vegetable oil until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. [IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER_1]
Step 7: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: While the cake cools, prepare the glaze (if using): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk/apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.