As the cool breeze ushers in the autumn season, I find myself irresistibly drawn to the comforting warmth of baked goods emerging from my oven. There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma wafting through my kitchen as I prepare this Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake. With tender chunks of juicy apples nestled in a moist, fluffy cake, and a sprinkle of cinnamon reminding us of the season’s essence, this dessert becomes the ultimate cozy treat. Quick to whip up, it’s perfect for cheerful family gatherings or an afternoon indulgence with your favorite cup of tea. Plus, it adapts wonderfully for everyone—think gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free options! Curious about how to make this delightful autumn staple? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this Cinnamon Apple Cake a must-try?
Warm, Inviting Flavors: The delightful blend of cinnamon and luscious apples captures the essence of fall perfectly, filling your home with a cozy aroma.
Versatile for Everyone: With options for gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free adaptations, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat regardless of dietary needs.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy bakers who crave homemade goodness.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family gatherings, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that will impress your loved ones, just like my Rustic Rhubarb Cinnamon pie!
Irresistibly Moist: With tender pieces of fruit and a fluffy texture, every bite feels like a warm hug, reminiscent of your favorite autumn memories.
Embrace the season with this comforting dessert, and don’t forget to pair it with a cup of warm cider or tea for that ultimate cozy experience!
Cinnamon Apple Cake Ingredients
Ready to create the ultimate autumn treat?
For the Batter
• Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure butter is softened for easier mixing.
• Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Provides sweetness and structure; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Dark Brown Sugar (1/2 cup) – Adds depth and moisture with a hint of molasses flavor; light brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
• Eggs (2 large) – Binds ingredients and contributes to texture; flax eggs can be used for a vegan version (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
• Vanilla Extract (1/4 tsp) – Enhances flavor complexity.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 1/4 cups) – Provides structure to the cake; a gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent for a light cake.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Adds warm, cozy flavor; consider increasing to 1.5 tsp for stronger flavor.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Chopped Apples (1 1/2 cups, about 2 medium apples) – The primary flavor component, providing moisture and sweetness; best varieties are Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for tartness.
• Chopped Walnuts (1/2 cup) – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; pecans can be substituted or omitted for a nut-free cake.
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is your ticket to an aromatic, sweet experience that captures the heart of fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for CINNAMON APPLE CAKE
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9-inch round baking pan by greasing it with non-stick spray or butter. This ensures your delicious CINNAMON APPLE CAKE will release easily once baked, presenting a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is essential for creating a tender texture that will elevate your CINNAMON APPLE CAKE.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract, letting the warm, aromatic scent fill your kitchen. The batter should now be rich and smooth, ready to blend with the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, doing just enough to blend them together without overmixing. The batter for your CINNAMON APPLE CAKE should appear slightly lumpy, indicating it’s perfect for those tender bites.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Walnuts
Gently fold the chopped apples and walnuts into your batter using a spatula. Ensure everything is evenly distributed without overworking the mixture. The fruits and nuts will add a delightful texture and flavor to your cake, making each bite a memorable experience.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared 9-inch round baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on your cake, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when the CINNAMON APPLE CAKE is ready.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set properly before transferring. Carefully turn the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess and ensuring a perfect texture.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your delectable CINNAMON APPLE CAKE and savor it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Gather around with friends and family as you relish this cozy autumn delight, creating warm memories with each delightful slice.
What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake
There’s nothing quite like enhancing the cozy experience of a freshly baked cake with the perfect accompaniments.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the warm cake, melting slightly for that irresistible combination.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle rich caramel sauce over each slice to elevate flavors, adding a sweet, buttery finish that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
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Chai Tea: Sip on a warm cup of fragrant chai tea, with its blend of spices enhancing the cozy flavors of your cinnamon apple cake.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a lovely texture contrast, balancing the cake’s density while adding a touch of sweetness.
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Apple Cider: For a seasonal touch, serve warm apple cider alongside the cake, echoing its flavors and creating a festive autumn atmosphere.
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Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top of your slice. These add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that echoes the cake’s ingredients.
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Cinnamon Tea: Brew a cup of cinnamon tea to intensify the warm spice notes. The aromatic beverage perfectly complements the cake’s flavors.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: For coffee lovers, a pumpkin spice latte makes a wonderful pairing, uniting classic autumn flavors with every bite of cake.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds a bright, juicy contrast, cleansing the palate after indulging in the rich cake.
Indulge in these pairings to create a delightful experience that complements the essence of your Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake!
Cinnamon Apple Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your cake to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Nut-Free: Omit walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch that everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use flax eggs to create a dairy-free, egg-free version that’s still delicious.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for an equally scrumptious cake that accommodates dietary preferences.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of nutmeg or cloves to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and excitement in every bite.
- Caramel Delight: Incorporate caramel bits into the batter for a sweet surprise or drizzle caramel sauce on top before serving for an indulgent touch.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins along with the apples for an added twist of flavor and texture.
- Zesty Upgrade: Grate in some fresh lemon zest for a bright, citrusy kick that beautifully complements the cinnamon and apple flavors.
- Chocolate Lovers: For a decadent variation, fold in chocolate chips alongside the apples, creating a delightful contrast of flavors, just as in my Oreo Cheesecake Indulge.
The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility; make it your own and enjoy it with family and friends!
Expert Tips for the Best Cinnamon Apple Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, well-mixed batter, which is crucial for a fluffy CINNAMON APPLE CAKE.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined after adding the dry ingredients to avoid a dense cake. A few lumps are okay; they will bake nicely.
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Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold up well during baking and contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.
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Nuts Optional: If making a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds for a pleasant crunch without allergies.
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Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick method—insert it in the center, and it should come out clean. Remember, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake to keep the cake moist.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves will give your CINNAMON APPLE CAKE a unique twist and enhance the autumn flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Cinnamon Apple Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe through to the step of folding in the apples and walnuts. Simply cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps maintain fresh flavors and prevents browning. When you’re ready to bake, pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed. Additionally, you can also make the cake completely and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, ensuring you enjoy a moist and delicious dessert any time you need a sweet treat!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Apple Cake
Room Temperature: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor without refrigeration.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep it fresher longer, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the Cinnamon Apple Cake and freeze the pieces in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy a piece whenever the craving strikes!
Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, simply reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for the Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Absolutely! Choosing the right apples is key to getting the best flavor and texture. I recommend using tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They not only hold their structure during baking but also provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Aim for about 1 1/2 cups of chopped apples, which is roughly two medium apples.
How should I store my leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake?
You can keep your leftover cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Just ensure it’s well-covered to avoid dryness.
Can I freeze the Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Sure! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to have a cozy autumn treat on hand!
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
Very! If your Cinnamon Apple Cake turns out dense, it might be because you overmixed the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Make sure to mix gently, just until combined, and avoid overmixing. Also, ensure your leavening ingredients like baking soda are fresh. A well-measured mix of wet and dry ingredients can lead to a light, fluffy cake.
Can I make the Cinnamon Apple Cake vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs—combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit until it thickens. For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Both variations will still yield a deliciously moist cake.
Are there any allergy-friendly options for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking to make a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. You can also replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. This way, everyone can enjoy your delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake without worry!
Cozy Up with This Delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round baking pan by greasing it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar, and beat until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in chopped apples and walnuts gently with a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly, then bake for 40-45 minutes until done.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve warm with optional toppings like ice cream or caramel sauce.