Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a baking pan.
Prepare Batter: In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Add Apples and Mix-ins: Fold in the diced apples and dried cherries, raisins, or nuts if using.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!