As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s the perfect chance to indulge in the warm embrace of a homemade treat. Enter my go-to Cinnamon Apple Cake—a delightful blend of juicy Granny Smith apples and fragrant cinnamon that will not only fill your kitchen with heartwarming aromas but will also please every palate at the table. This cake is a fantastic crowd-pleaser, easy to whip up, and can be tailored to fit diverse dietary needs, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of gluten-free baking or prefer a less sweet version, this recipe has got you covered. Ready to discover how to make this cozy fall dessert? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why is this Cinnamon Apple Cake special?
Heavenly Aroma: The moment you pull this cake from the oven, your home will be filled with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and baked apples, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Versatile Options: Need gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives? This recipe adapts effortlessly to suit various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a slice!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfectly balanced sweetness makes this cake a hit for both casual gatherings and special celebrations, comparable to indulgent treats like Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or Caramel Brownie Cheesecake.
Effortless Baking: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this cake in no time, bringing a homemade touch to your dessert table.
Perfect Any Time: Enjoy it as a cozy dessert after dinner, a sweet breakfast with coffee, or a delightful snack throughout the day—this cake shines in any scenario!
Cinnamon Apple Cake Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this cozy dessert.
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; alternatively, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; for a less sweet cake, reduce to 2/3 cup.
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a deeper sweetness.
- Baking Powder – Aids in leavening for a light, fluffy cake.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor balance.
- Ground Cinnamon – Offers warm spice flavor, perfect in both batter and topping.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with dairy-free butter or oil for a dairy-free option.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together; use a flaxseed or chia mix for a vegan alternative.
- Sour Cream – Adds moisture and a touch of tang; coconut yogurt works for dairy-free options.
- Milk – Provides liquid; almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Granny Smith Apples – Supplies tartness and moisture, approximately 2 medium apples, diced evenly.
- Lemon Juice – Prevents browning of apples and enhances freshness.
For the Topping
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and creates a delightful, crisp topping.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds a fragrant finish to the cake.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan, and generously grease it with butter. Dust it lightly with flour and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal of your delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake 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 with a splash of lemon juice in a bowl; this will keep them fresh and bright. Once coated, set the tossed apples aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the Cinnamon Apple Cake for a perfect rise.
Step 4: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, whisking until everything is incorporated into a luscious batter.
Step 5: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Mix in 1 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of milk to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir these ingredients until the mixture is creamy and silky, ensuring all the wet components blend perfectly together. This adds richness to your Cinnamon Apple Cake, making it incredibly moist.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. This is a crucial step to keep your cake tender and fluffy, so avoid vigorous mixing.
Step 7: Add the Apples
Now, fold in the diced and lemon-coated apples into the batter until they are evenly distributed. This helps incorporate the sweet, tart flavors throughout the cake. Once combined, carefully pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 0.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this sweet mixture evenly over the top of your batter. This cinnamon-sugar topping will create a delightful crispy crust on your Cinnamon Apple Cake as it bakes.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake to ensure it doesn’t brown too quickly.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Carefully release it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Your inviting Cinnamon Apple Cake is now ready to be sliced and enjoyed!
Cinnamon Apple Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this delightful recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy a delightful, gluten-free version.
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter or oil in place of unsalted butter and substitute coconut yogurt for sour cream to create a cake that everyone can savor.
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Sugar Reduction: Cut the granulated sugar down to 2/3 cup for a less sweet cake that still packs a flavor punch without overwhelming sweetness.
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Pears Instead of Apples: Replace the Granny Smith apples with ripe pears for a sweeter twist that brings a whole new flavor profile to every slice.
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Dried Fruit: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for an extra fruity bite. This addition brings a chewy texture and bursts of flavor in every mouthful.
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in some chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent spin on your classic Cinnamon Apple Cake, adding a touch of decadence that’s hard to resist.
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Streusel Topping: Create a crunchy topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, and butter for a delicious streusel topping that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake underneath.
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Nuts for Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a satisfying crunch that enhances both the flavor and texture of your cake.
With these delightful variations, you’ll keep coming back to this recipe, whether you’re looking to try something new or stay true to the heartwarming classic! If you’re in the mood for other comforting desserts, don’t forget to check out my recipes for Vanilla Bean Cheesecake or Cinnamon Roll Honeybun. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Apple Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the Cinnamon Apple Cake in an airtight container for 4-5 days; let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This keeps the cake fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: For a warm treat, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven; serve warm for that incredible just-baked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Apple Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week. You can easily mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can peel, core, and dice the apples, tossing them with lemon juice to prevent browning, which can be done up to 24 hours ahead of baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepped dry ingredients with the wet mixture, fold in the apples, and bake as directed for a delicious cake that tastes just as fresh, saving you valuable time and effort during your busy days!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Apple Cake
Indulging in a slice of this cozy dessert opens up a wonderful opportunity to create a full meal that tantalizes the senses.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing—its creamy richness balances the warm spices, adding a delightful contrast to the cake’s texture.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this sweet topping enhances the cake’s flavor while inviting a touch of elegance to your dessert experience.
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Coffee or Tea: Sipping on a warm brew not only complements the cake’s cinnamon notes but also elevates the entire tasting experience, making it feel cozy.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this over the top provides a sweet, buttery flavor that contrasts perfectly with the tartness of the apples.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a mix of berries and citrus adds a lightness that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s density.
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Chai Latte: The warm spices in this creamy drink echo the cake’s flavors while providing a cozy touch that’s perfect for fall.
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Nutty Granola: Serving crumble-like granola on the side offers a crunchy element that invites a delightful textural contrast with every bite.
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Coconut Yogurt: A smooth and tangy alternative that adds healthful probiotics while complementing the cake’s sweetness without overpowering it.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a simple drizzle brings an indulgent element to the plate, making every slice an exquisite treat.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Cake
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together; overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Remember, keeping your Cinnamon Apple Cake tender means just a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Apple Choice is Key: Use tart Granny Smith apples for the best flavor contrast; they balance the sweetness since the recipe includes sugar.
- Uniform Apples: Dice your apples evenly to ensure they bake uniformly throughout the cake, preventing some pieces from being undercooked.
- Cover if Needed: If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid burning.
- Check Doneness: Always test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs for the perfect cake.
Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a perfect Cinnamon Apple Cake, I recommend using Granny Smith apples. Their tartness balances the sweetness from the sugars, adding depth to the flavor. Look for apples that are firm, with smooth skin and no dark spots; a good indicator of freshness!
What’s the best way to store leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake?
You can easily store your cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just cover it with some plastic wrap or in a cake dome to ensure it stays moist. If you want it to last longer, transfer it to the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Always allow it to come back to room temperature for the best taste!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cake, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This method keeps the cake fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature for a few hours, and they will taste almost as good as freshly baked!
What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your Cinnamon Apple Cake doesn’t rise well, ensure that your baking powder is fresh. An easy way to check is to mix a teaspoon in warm water; it should fizz. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter, as it can lead to a dense texture. Last but not least, keep an eye on the baking time; sometimes, even a few extra minutes can make a difference!
Any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This recipe can be easily adapted for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, and substitute dairy ingredients with unsweetened almond milk and coconut yogurt. Always check for allergies to nuts or specific sweeteners if you offer this cake to others!
How can I make this cake less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version of the Cinnamon Apple Cake, you can simply reduce the granulated sugar to 2/3 cup. This alteration will allow the natural sweetness of the apples to shine through while still maintaining the cake’s moist texture. Happy baking!
Cinnamon Apple Cake: Warm Comfort in Every Slice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by greasing it with butter, dusting with flour, and lining with parchment paper.
- Peel, core, and dice about two medium Granny Smith apples into 0.5-inch pieces and toss with lemon juice.
- In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla extract.
- Mix in sour cream and milk until creamy.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed, then pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake the cake for about 45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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