Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a treat that wraps up all the coziness of autumn in one irresistible bite, look no further than Cinnamon Apple Cake. This delightful recipe features a moist, tender crumb and sweet-tart apple chunks swirled with warm cinnamon spice, topped off with a crunchy sugar-cinnamon finish. Whether it’s a chilly evening with friends or a weekend baking project, this cake will quickly become your go-to dessert for turning simple ingredients into soul-warming perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cinnamon Apple Cake lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly cast of ingredients. Each component plays an important role, from creating the soft, flavorful crumb to infusing the cake with its signature aroma. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• All-purpose flour: Sets up the cake’s structure and keeps it just the right amount of fluffy.
• Baking powder & baking soda: Give your cake lift and the perfect tender texture.
• Salt: Unleashes all the natural flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth in every bite.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and that scrumptious, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with the soft crumb.
• Brown sugar: Gives a hint of caramel flavor for extra coziness.
• Eggs (large): Bind everything together and provide structure and lightness.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle, fragrant finish.
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Delivers moisture and tang, making the cake ultra-tender.
• Peeled and diced apples: The juicy heart of the cake—use firm, tart apples for best results.
• Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Add a delightful crunch and nutty richness if you like.
• Sugar and cinnamon (for topping): Sprinkle over the top for that irresistible sweet, crackly crust.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pan

Start by getting your oven cozy at 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan thoroughly—this ensures your Cinnamon Apple Cake will release perfectly golden, every time, without sticking to the edges.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step guarantees the leaveners and spice are evenly dispersed, so there’s a perfect bite in every corner of your cake.

Step 3: Cream the Butter & Sugars

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugar until you have a light, fluffy mixture. This not only sweetens the cake but also creates the foundation for a pillowy crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then blend in the vanilla extract. Afterwards, stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt—this is your secret weapon for a deliciously tender Cinnamon Apple Cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet, stirring gently just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so take it easy—some streaks are perfectly fine at this stage.

Step 6: Fold in Apples (and Nuts, If Using)

Switch to a spatula and carefully fold in the diced apples and walnuts or pecans if you like things a little nutty. This assures even distribution—and those apple chunks will stay juicy.

Step 7: Spread, Top, and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Mix the topping sugar and cinnamon, then shower it evenly over the batter. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and your kitchen smells heavenly.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let your Cinnamon Apple Cake cool in the pan—this helps the crumb set. Once it’s just warm or at room temp, cut into generous squares and get ready to impress!

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake

Garnishes

Sprinkle your slices of Cinnamon Apple Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, classic finish. For extra flair, add a few thin apple slices or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce—they boost both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re inviting friends for brunch or an afternoon coffee, serve with spiced chai, fresh apple cider, or a hot cup of coffee for a comforting, cozy spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering chunks of Cinnamon Apple Cake in parfait glasses with vanilla Greek yogurt and more fresh apples for a gorgeous fall-inspired trifle. Tiny squares also make a stellar addition to a dessert board alongside chocolate, cheese, and fruit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any remaining Cinnamon Apple Cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is especially warm or humid, it’s best to store the cake in the fridge to maintain its moist, tender crumb.

Freezing

For longer storage, cut the cooled cake into squares, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and stow in a freezer bag. The flavor and texture hold up beautifully for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for a treat.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked warmth, microwave individual pieces of Cinnamon Apple Cake for 15 to 20 seconds or place on a baking sheet in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. Add a scoop of ice cream on top for a real showstopper!

FAQs

What kind of apples work best in Cinnamon Apple Cake?

You’ll want to choose firm, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These varieties hold their shape during baking and offer a bright flavor contrast to the sweet cake base.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

While oil will keep the cake moist, butter provides that rich, set texture and classic flavor you’d miss! For best results, stick with unsalted butter as called for in the recipe.

Is it possible to make Cinnamon Apple Cake gluten free?

Absolutely! You can substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. We recommend checking the packaging for any adjustments, but the rest of the method is the same.

Can I add more spices?

Yes! If you love bolder flavors, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the cake batter for even more autumn warmth.

Why did my cake turn out dense?

Denseness usually comes from overmixing the batter or not creaming the butter and sugars enough. Mix wet and dry ingredients gently and make sure your butter is soft for the fluffiest results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to bake and share this Cinnamon Apple Cake as I am. There’s something truly magical about a recipe that’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any day you need a little extra comfort. Give it a try—you just might discover your new favorite cozy dessert!

Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 9 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake. Moist and tender, this cake is loaded with chunks of fresh apples and a hint of cinnamon, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

For Topping:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and sour cream.
5. Combine and fold: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using.
6. Spread batter: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
7. Add topping: Mix the topping ingredients and sprinkle over the top.
8. Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and serve: Cool in the pan before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
• Pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.
• Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg