Cinnamon Apple Cake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon with the sweetness of fresh apples, creating a perfect treat for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:42:44.255Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is not only easy to make but also a family favorite. The combination of warm spices and juicy apples makes it a perfect dessert for any gathering.

Why You'll Love This Cake

  • Warm, comforting flavors that evoke nostalgia
  • Moist and tender texture with every bite
  • Perfectly spiced, suitable for any season

The Perfect Fall Dessert

Cinnamon Apple Cake is an ideal dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall. As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, the warm aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills your kitchen, creating a sense of coziness. This cake not only delights your taste buds but also evokes the nostalgic feelings associated with family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Whether it's a festive occasion or a simple family dinner, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The use of fresh, diced apples adds natural sweetness and moisture, making each bite tender and flavorful. As they bake, the apples release their juices, infusing the cake with a delightful richness that complements the warm spices. This cake is perfect for sharing with loved ones, and it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Easy to Make

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Apple Cake is how simple it is to make. Even novice bakers can successfully whip up this delicious dessert with just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps. With just a little preparation, you can have a warm, homemade cake ready to serve in under an hour. It's a fantastic way to introduce baking to friends or family who may be new to the kitchen.

The recipe calls for common pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes. Plus, the versatility of this cake allows for substitutions; you can experiment with different types of apples or add a hint of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for any season.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

After baking, allow your Cinnamon Apple Cake to cool completely before serving. This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, although it's sure to disappear much sooner. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. This makes it easy to enjoy a slice whenever you desire a taste of comfort.

When it comes to serving, this cake shines on its own, but it can also be enhanced with various toppings. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate its presentation. For a more indulgent experience, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of spiced whipped cream. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this cake is sure to bring joy to your dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups peeled and diced apples

For the Topping

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Make sure to use fresh apples for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk until just combined.

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and sprinkle the topping over the batter. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Apple Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Variations to Try

While this Cinnamon Apple Cake is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to switch things up. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pecans or almonds into the batter, enhancing both texture and flavor. If you prefer a bit of tartness, try mixing in some cranberries or using a combination of sweet and tart apples for a balanced taste profile.

You can also make this cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder and baking soda are gluten-free as well. With these simple modifications, anyone can enjoy this delightful dessert, regardless of dietary preferences.

Pairing Suggestions

Cinnamon Apple Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, serve it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea. The warmth of the spices in the cake complements the rich flavors of these drinks perfectly, creating a cozy afternoon treat.

For a refreshing contrast, try pairing the cake with a glass of cold apple cider or a light, fruity wine. The crispness of the cider or wine will enhance the cake's apple flavor while providing a delightful balance to its sweetness. No matter your choice, these pairings will elevate your dessert experience.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or even berries for a different flavor.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and keep it covered.

→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.

Cinnamon Apple Cake

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon with the sweetness of fresh apples, creating a perfect treat for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  3. 1 tsp baking soda
  4. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  5. 1/2 tsp salt
  6. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  7. 1 cup granulated sugar
  8. 2 large eggs
  9. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  10. 1 cup buttermilk
  11. 2 cups peeled and diced apples

For the Topping

  1. 1/4 cup brown sugar
  2. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  3. 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Step 02

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 04

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 05

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk until just combined.

Step 06

Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Step 07

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts.

Step 08

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and sprinkle the topping over the batter. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 09

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 3g