If you have a soft spot for warm, cozy desserts that taste like a hug in every bite, then you will absolutely adore this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe. It’s a wonderfully spiced, moist cake packed with tender apple chunks that burst with natural sweetness and a hint of cinnamon warmth. This cake combines the rustic charm of freshly baked apples and the comforting aroma of cinnamon, making it a perfect sweet treat for any time of the year. Whether for a casual family gathering or a festive occasion, this cake never fails to bring smiles and requests for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together beautifully to create a cake that’s balanced in texture, flavor, and aroma. Each item plays its own role, from the fluffy texture brought by the baking powder to the rich warmth imparted by the cinnamon and apples.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect tender crumb for the cake.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk to create a moist crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds the signature warm spice that defines the cake.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances tartness of apples.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- ½ cup buttermilk: Ensures moistness and helps activate the baking soda.
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and texture.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake comes out perfectly without sticking. This small but crucial step prevents any frustration later when you’re ready to serve.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This blend evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices, so every bite gets that cozy cinnamon flavor and the cake rises beautifully.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, take a large mixing bowl and beat your softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This is key for a tender, airy cake. Don’t rush this step because the air incorporated here helps with the cake’s texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow with the vanilla extract for that subtle sweet aroma that pairs so well with apples and cinnamon.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add your dry flour mixture to the butter mixture alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just enough to combine everything. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so gentle folding is the way to go.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Walnuts
Carefully fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts if you’re using them. The apples add bursts of juiciness, and the walnuts bring delightful crunch, creating a lovely contrast within the soft cake.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Transfer
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cake set perfectly and makes slicing effortless.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe by dusting it with powdered sugar or drizzling warm caramel sauce on top. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also elevates this dessert into something truly special and irresistible.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea, complementing the warm spices and fresh apple flavor. For a brunch twist, serve alongside creamy yogurt or mild cheese for a lovely balance of sweet and savory.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices in pretty dessert plates with a sprinkle of toasted walnuts on top or layer the cake with mascarpone and apple compote for a festive trifle. Presentation can turn this cozy classic into a show-stopping centerpiece for your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe, store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is recommended.
Freezing
If you want to make this cake ahead of time, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked feel, warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven wrapped loosely with foil. This step revives the cake’s softness and enhances the cinnamon aroma.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for the Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp and tart apples like Granny Smith work great, but sweet varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp also add a lovely natural sweetness. Just peel and dice them as directed.
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure, or add a bit separately if needed.
Can I omit the walnuts if I have allergies?
Definitely. The walnuts are optional and can be left out without affecting the cake’s moisture or flavor. Alternatively, you can substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for some crunch.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to ½ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How should I slice the cake for the best presentation?
Let the cake cool completely before slicing with a serrated knife. Cutting into wedges works beautifully for round cakes, highlighting the tender apple pieces inside. Clean the knife between cuts for neat slices.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a slice of homemade Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe fresh from the oven. It’s a timeless recipe that invites warmth and happiness to any table you serve it on. Give it a try soon—you’ll find this special cake quickly becoming one of your all-time favorites too!
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Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for autumn or any occasion, it combines soft cake with sweet, juicy apples and an optional crunch from walnuts. Baked to golden perfection, this classic cake is easy to make and enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
Add-ins
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the batter with flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Gently fold in the peeled and diced apples along with the optional chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
- Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and complementary flavor.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for better creaming results.
- Do not overmix the batter once you add dry ingredients to keep the cake tender.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
