As the vibrant leaves begin to fall, there’s something magical about the aroma of warm spices wafting through the kitchen. This Cinnamon Apple Cake is my go-to recipe for embracing that cozy feeling of fall. The moist, tender crumb, highlighting juicy apple pieces, is finished with a delightful cinnamon-sugar crust that’s simply irresistible. Plus, this cake offers the convenience of being adaptable; it can easily be made gluten-free or dairy-free, ensuring everyone can join in on the seasonal indulgence. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet afternoon treat with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to warm your heart and home. Curious about how to whip up this delightful fall favorite? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Try This Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Cozy Flavors: This cake embraces the essence of fall with its warm spices and tender apple pieces, providing a comforting taste that feels like a seasonal hug.
Versatile Options: Easily adapt for dietary needs—gluten-free or dairy-free variations ensure that everyone can enjoy this delight, just like my Rustic Rhubarb Cinnamon pie, which offers wonderful flavors for all!
Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps, this moist cake comes together in no time, making it the perfect choice for a spontaneous baking session or planned gathering.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether paired with vanilla ice cream or served on its own, this cake is sure to impress! It’s a hit at gatherings, just like my Oreo Cheesecake Indulge.
Delicious Texture: The soft crumb and crisp topping create a beautiful contrast that makes every bite a delight. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Cinnamon Apple Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; reduce to 2/3 cup for a less sweet option or substitute with maple syrup for a unique flavor.
- Light brown sugar – Enhances sweetness and adds richness; pack tightly in measurements for accuracy.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for rise; ensure freshness for the best cake lift.
- Kosher salt – Elevates flavors; regular salt can be used as an alternative without an issue.
- Ground cinnamon – Provides the signature warming spice flavor; adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
- Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness to the cake; can replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds structure; flax eggs can be used for a vegan version.
- Sour cream – Contributes to moisture and tanginess; substitute with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
- Milk – Adds extra moisture; plant-based milk alternatives also work well here.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile; using pure vanilla extract will yield the best results.
- Granny Smith apples – Offers tartness and texture; about 2 medium apples peeled and diced. Pears can be used as a delicious substitute.
- Lemon juice – Prevents apples from browning and adds a bright note to the flavor.
For the Topping
- Granulated sugar for topping – Adds a delightful sweetness and crunch to the cake’s crust.
- Ground cinnamon for topping – Complements the cake with an additional layer of aromatic flavor.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s embark on this delightful baking journey together!
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 cake pan by greasing it with butter or cooking spray. Dust it with flour, making sure to cover all sides, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release later.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Next, peel, core, and dice about two medium Granny Smith apples into 0.5-inch pieces. Toss the diced apples gently with a splash of lemon juice in a bowl to prevent browning and add brightness to their flavor. Set this aside while you mix the batter.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Ensure these are well combined for even flavor distribution, then set the bowl aside as you focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Combine the Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of granulated sugar and ¾ cup of packed light brown sugar with ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Use a hand mixer or whisk to mix these ingredients until smooth and creamy, creating a delightful sweet base for your Cinnamon Apple Cake.
Step 5: Add the Eggs and Dairy
Next, incorporate 2 large eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, and then stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Once combined, gently fold in ½ cup of sour cream and ½ cup of milk until the mixture is creamy and uniform, adding moisture to your batter.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that tender texture in your Cinnamon Apple Cake. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, ready for the apples.
Step 7: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the prepared apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. Once the apples are integrated, pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure a beautiful, level top for your cake.
Step 8: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the batter, creating a sweet and crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust that will enhance the flavor and appearance of your Cinnamon Apple Cake.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the cake has risen beautifully and is perfectly baked.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve this delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake warm or at room temperature, savoring those cozy fall flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Apple Cake preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can mix the dry ingredients and prepare the apples up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately to maintain freshness. For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the diced apples after tossing them in lemon juice to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients with the prepped dry mixture, fold in the apples, and follow the baking instructions as usual. This way, you can enjoy a warm, comforting dessert with minimal effort after a long day, just as delicious and enticing as if freshly baked!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Apple Cake
As the aroma of cinnamon and apples fills your home, envision a delightful spread to accompany this comforting dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream:
The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warm spices of the cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures. -
Whipped Cream:
Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch that enhances the cake’s flavors while offering a delightful creaminess. -
Coffee or Tea:
A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea rounds out your experience, making every bite feel like a warm hug. -
Caramel Sauce:
Drizzled over the cake, caramel sauce adds a rich sweetness that takes the flavors over the top—an indulgent finishing touch! -
Fresh Berries:
A side of tart berries adds a refreshing burst, cutting through the richness of the cake while enhancing its fruitiness. -
Nutty Granola:
For a crunch element, serve a sprinkle of nutty granola on top of the cake, adding texture that complements the moist crumb beautifully. -
Chocolate Sauce:
A drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent twist creates a new layer of flavors that will entice chocolate lovers! -
Cheese Platter:
For a savory contrast, pair the cake with a selection of cheeses—think sharp cheddar or creamy brie to balance the sweetness.
These pairings will create an inviting and memorable gathering, showcasing your Cinnamon Apple Cake as the centerpiece of warmth and comfort!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Apple Cake
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Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the texture moist while still allowing the flavors to blossom.
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Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This will help maintain its deliciousness and stave off dryness.
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Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the Cinnamon Apple Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw on the counter before serving for the best texture.
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Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or gently reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes, bringing back that fresh-baked feel.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Cake
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Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter just until the dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, losing that tender crumb you desire.
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Consistent Apple Size: Cut your apples into uniform 0.5-inch pieces for even baking. This ensures each bite is perfectly blended with the cake.
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Foil Tenting: If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning while cooking through.
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Proper Cooling: Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents crumbling when slicing.
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Storage Tips: Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days; it can also be refrigerated for 4-5 days in an airtight container to keep it fresh and tasty.
Cinnamon Apple Cake Variations
Feel free to make this delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake your own by trying out these tempting variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, inclusive treat.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out sour cream for coconut yogurt and use coconut oil instead of butter for a lovely dairy-free version.
- Less Sweet: Reduce granulated sugar to 2/3 cup or replace half with maple syrup to enjoy a more balanced sweetness.
- Pears Instead of Apples: For a fruity twist, replace apples with ripe pears. Their sweetness and softer texture will add a delightful layer of flavor.
- Flavor Add-Ins: Enhance your cake by folding in dried cranberries, raisins, or even chocolate chips for added texture and sweetness.
- Streusel Topping: Top with a simple streusel made from flour, brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt for a crunchy finish.
- Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for an additional layer of warm, comforting spices.
- Cinnamon Roll Style: Swirl a mixture of cinnamon and sugar into the batter before baking for a beautiful cinnamon roll effect.
No matter how you choose to customize it, this cake will surely warm your heart and home. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, just like with my delicious Chicken Grilled Pineapple for a perfect hint of sweetness!
Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the cake?
Granny Smith apples are ideal for this Cinnamon Apple Cake due to their tartness and firm texture. However, feel free to substitute with other varieties like Honeycrisp or even pears if you prefer a sweeter flavor!
How do I store the cake after baking?
You can store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 4-5 days.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it on the counter.
Why is my cake tough?
Toughness usually comes from overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Stir until just incorporated to maintain that tender crumb you love. Also, ensure apple pieces are consistent in size to bake uniformly for even texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you’re planning to make this cake for guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and substitute coconut yogurt for sour cream and coconut oil for butter to make it dairy-free.
Delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by greasing it and dusting with flour.
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into 0.5-inch pieces. Toss with lemon juice and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each, then stir in the vanilla, sour cream, and milk.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing gently.
- Fold in the apples and pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping and sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.