Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for a dessert that tastes like autumn wrapped in a tender crumb, look no further than this Cinnamon Apple Cake. Every bite is warm, comforting, and just the right amount of sweet, packed with chunks of juicy apple and a cozy hug of cinnamon. This truly is the cake I crave on crisp afternoons with a mug of coffee, and it’s perfect to serve to friends and family all year long. With its easy preparation yet unforgettable flavor, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Cake couldn’t be simpler. Each one brings something special—whether it’s the soft crumb, spiced aroma, or juicy bites of apple—so don’t skip them. Let’s break down why you’ll love every element of this cake:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of the cake, giving structure while remaining tender.
- Baking powder: Lifts the cake just enough to keep it fluffy and light.
- Baking soda: Activates with the sour cream to add extra rise and a delicate texture.
- Salt: Just a little bit enhances all the sweet flavors and prevents blandness.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice, it gives that signature warmth we all love.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty richness that pairs beautifully with apples.
- Unsalted butter (softened): For moisture, flavor and richness in every crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a light, tender cake.
- Brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a hint of caramel undertone for depth.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and brings out the sweetness of apples.
- Sour cream: The secret to super-moist cake that stays soft for days.
- Peeled and chopped apples: The juicy main event! A mix of tart and sweet apples works wonders.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A final snow-like sprinkle makes this cake truly photo-worthy.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take out a 9×13-inch baking dish and either grease it well with butter or nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This simple step makes all the difference when it comes to smooth slicing and serving later!
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures your Cinnamon Apple Cake will have a perfectly even rise and the spices won’t clump.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with both the granulated and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This step infuses your cake with air, creating that delightfully tender crumb Cinnamon Apple Cake fans adore.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Pour in the vanilla extract for its sweet, comforting aroma. Taking your time here creates a smooth, cohesive batter that bakes up beautifully.
Step 5: Mix in the Sour Cream
Stir in the sour cream until the batter looks creamy and combined. This is your ticket to keeping the Cinnamon Apple Cake moist for days without becoming dense.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet bowl. Mix with care—using a spatula or wooden spoon—until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so stop as soon as you see the flour disappear!
Step 7: Fold in the Apples
Now for the best part: fold in those chopped apples. You’ll notice how their juices plump up the batter, promising sweet-tart bursts in every bite of your Cinnamon Apple Cake.
Step 8: Bake
Spread the batter into your prepared baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center pulls out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is pure comfort.
Step 9: Cool and Finish
Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Once cool, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for that classic bakery finish. Now slice it up and enjoy the payoff of your tasty efforts!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake
Garnishes
This homey cake loves a little extra something. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is timeless, but a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream will send it over the top. If you want to echo the apples, try a spoonful of apple compote on the side.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Apple Cake pairs delightfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a splash of warm custard. For brunch, serve it with spiced tea, chai lattes, or even a glass of chilled apple cider to play up the autumnal flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, cut the cake into shapes with cookie cutters and stack for an elegant dessert plate. Cupcake wrappers make for adorable, single-serve portions, or layer slices with whipped cream and thin apple slices for a stunning Cinnamon Apple Cake trifle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cinnamon Apple Cake will stay soft and luscious for several days. Simply cover the pan tightly with foil or transfer leftover slices to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for 4 to 5 days.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices (or the whole cake) in plastic wrap, then foil. Label and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
To restore that just-baked feel, warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes. The cinnamon aroma reawakens, and the apples turn slightly syrupy—truly irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While I love using a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor, feel free to use any variety you enjoy or have on hand. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala are all excellent choices, and they’ll each put their own twist on your Cinnamon Apple Cake.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended for the softest texture, as the skins can be a bit chewy after baking. That said, if you love a more rustic, hearty bite, you can leave the peels on — just make sure to wash them thoroughly first!
Can I make Cinnamon Apple Cake in advance for a party?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead! In fact, the flavors deepen after a day. Bake and cool it, then keep it tightly covered until you’re ready to serve. A quick dust of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel right before serving will freshen up the presentation.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Definitely. Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture may be ever so slightly different, but all that apple-cinnamon goodness comes through perfectly!
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Of course! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a fantastic crunch to your Cinnamon Apple Cake, and a handful of raisins or dried cranberries is always welcome. Just fold them in with the apples, and get ready for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can’t resist recommending this Cinnamon Apple Cake to everyone I know. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as easy as it is delicious, whether you’re baking for a holiday or just a quiet afternoon at home. Give it a try and make your own sweet memories—hearty laughs and seconds are all but guaranteed!
Print
Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake. Moist and tender, this cake is packed with chunks of fresh apples and aromatic cinnamon, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
Optional:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Mix in the sour cream, then gradually add the dry ingredients to form a smooth batter.
- Add Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples.
- Bake: Spread the batter in the pan and bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
