There’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of apples and cinnamon filling the kitchen. An Apple and Cinnamon Cake brings together the sweetness of fresh apples and the warm spiciness of cinnamon, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special family gathering or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to become a favorite. With its soft, moist texture and irresistible flavor, it’s the ultimate autumn-inspired treat.
Why You’ll Love Apple and Cinnamon Cake:
- Moist and Tender: The apples add natural moisture, making this cake incredibly soft and tender.
- Warm Spice Flavor: Cinnamon adds a cozy, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples.
- Versatile: Enjoy this cake as a dessert, a snack, or even as a breakfast treat with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, this cake is both easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
How to Make Apple and Cinnamon Cake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch round cake pan or 8×8-inch square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step helps create a soft, tender crumb in the cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for a lovely aroma and flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until the batter is smooth.
Step 6: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter. The apples will provide moisture and texture to the cake, creating juicy bursts of flavor in every bite. If you’re adding chopped nuts, now is the time to fold those in as well.
Step 7: Transfer the Batter and Add Topping
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. For an extra burst of cinnamon sweetness, mix 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and your kitchen will smell amazing by this point!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice the cake and serve. Enjoy it as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence.
Customization Ideas:
- Add a Streusel Topping: For extra crunch and sweetness, you can add a streusel topping made with butter, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon before baking.
- Glaze It: Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake for a little extra sweetness and visual appeal.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. It’s just as delicious!
- Switch Up the Apples: You can use any type of apple, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work particularly well due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Health Benefits of Apples and Cinnamon:
- Apples: Rich in dietary fiber, apples support digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels. They’re also packed with antioxidants like vitamin C.
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon can help improve metabolism, control blood sugar, and add a warm, comforting flavor without the need for excessive sugar.
Final Thoughts:
This Apple and Cinnamon Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of the flavors of fall in a single, delicious bite. With its moist texture, tender apple pieces, and warm cinnamon spice, it’s sure to please everyone around the table. It’s perfect for a weekend baking project or as a last-minute treat for guests. The best part? It’s simple to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Give this easy-to-follow recipe a try, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, homemade cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, with coffee or tea, this Apple and Cinnamon Cake will soon become a beloved favorite!
