If you’re looking for a dessert that’s cozy and full of flavor, apple cinnamon cake is the perfect choice. This cake is soft, moist, and filled with the warm taste of apples and cinnamon. It’s easy to make and great for any occasion, from family dinners to a sweet treat with coffee.
Ingredients List
- Apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – 3 medium, peeled, cored, and diced
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups
- Granulated sugar – 1 cup
- Brown sugar – ½ cup
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup (1 stick), softened
- Eggs – 2 large
- Whole milk – ½ cup
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons
- Ground nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon (optional, to prevent apples from browning)
Timing
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hr 10 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe for the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Cake
Step 1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2- Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and dicing them into small pieces. Toss the diced apples with a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning.
Step 3- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
Step 5- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 6- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
Step 7- Fold in the diced apples gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 9- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Choosing the Best Apples for Your Cinnamon Cake
Granny Smith apples are my go-to for this recipe because they hold up well during baking and add a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake. Honeycrisp apples are another excellent choice if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
How to Achieve the Ideal Cinnamon Flavor in Your Cake
The key to the perfect cinnamon flavor is using fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon. I find that two teaspoons offer a lovely warmth without overpowering the other flavors. If you’re a big fan of cinnamon, feel free to add a bit more.
Tips for Baking a Moist and Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Cake
1- Don’t overmix the batter; this can make the cake dense.
2- Room temperature ingredients blend better and help create a smooth batter.
3- Test for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Apple Cinnamon Cake Variations
1- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
2- Vegan: Replace the butter with a vegan margarine and the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
How to Make a Simple Cinnamon Glaze for Your Cake
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple cinnamon glaze over your cake. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk or plant-based milk and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Apple Cinnamon Cake
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of hot coffee or tea also complements the warm, spiced flavors.
How to Store and Keep Your Apple Cinnamon Cake Fresh
Store your Apple Cinnamon Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
The Health Benefits of Apple Cinnamon Cake Ingredients
1- Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, contributing to heart health.
2- Cinnamon has antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
3- Nutmeg adds not only flavor but also potential digestive benefits.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 25g
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a homemade Apple Cinnamon Cake, especially when it’s made with love. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as a dessert, this cake is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your table. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite.