The Coziest Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe for Fall Sweetness

Sweet aromas of baked cinnamon apple cake waft through kitchens, promising comfort and warmth.

Soft apples nestled in tender crumb create a classic dessert that feels like home.

Fragrant spices dance between layers of moist cake, inviting you to savor each delectable bite.

Seasonal ingredients blend seamlessly, turning simple elements into something magical.

Rustic and elegant, this cake speaks to both novice bakers and seasoned professionals.

Memories of grandmother’s kitchen emerge with every slice, connecting generations through a single, delightful recipe.

You’ll want to experience this soul-warming treat right away.

How to Bake Cinnamon Apple Cake

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F (175C).

Grab your 9-inch cake pan and give it a generous coating of grease to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Dry Magic

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt

Blend these dry ingredients until they’re perfectly combined.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until they transform into a light, fluffy cloud.

Add eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Splash in vanilla extract for an extra flavor punch.

Step 4: Marry The Mixtures

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the creamy base.

Alternate adding dry ingredients with buttermilk, stirring gently until just combined.

Fold in freshly diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Prep For Baking

Transfer the batter into the greased cake pan.

Sprinkle a delightful layer of brown sugar across the top for a caramelized finish.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Bake for 45-50 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool And Serve

Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Carefully transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your delectable cinnamon apple creation!

Tips for Making Cinnamon Apple Cake

• Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and balanced sweetness in the cake.
• Toss diced apples with a little lemon juice to keep them fresh and prevent discoloration during preparation.
• Don't overmix the batter; stir just until ingredients are combined to maintain a tender, soft crumb.
• Toast ground cinnamon in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before adding to enhance its deep, warm aromatic qualities.
• Use the toothpick test near the cake's center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked.

Saving Cinnamon Apple Cake for Later

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Slice cake into individual portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for maximum freshness.
• Keep cake covered at room temperature for 1-2 days if planning to eat soon. Use a cake dome or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or place in a preheated 300F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore moisture and bring back the cake's soft texture.

Pairing Suggestions for Cinnamon Apple Cake

• Pair with Warm Cinnamon Tea: Brew a fragrant cinnamon tea that echoes the cake's spicy notes, creating a harmonious and comforting flavor experience.
• Complement with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Add a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream alongside the cake, providing a cool, smooth contrast to the warm, spiced dessert.
• Match with Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the cake's sweetness by drizzling rich, golden caramel sauce over each slice, intensifying the apple and cinnamon flavors.
• Serve with Whipped Mascarpone: Top the cake with a dollop of light, airy mascarpone whipped cream, adding a luxurious and tangy dimension to the dessert.

Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Apple Cake: Swap wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version. Use gluten-free baking powder and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegan Apple Delight: Replace eggs with mashed bananas or applesauce. Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce granulated sugar by half and use stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Choose tart apples like Granny Smith to balance sweetness. Replace brown sugar topping with chopped nuts for added crunch.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of buttermilk. Substitute butter with coconut oil or olive oil. Keep the same spice and apple profile for a rich, moist cake.

FAQs

• What makes buttermilk special in this recipe?

Buttermilk adds moisture and helps create a tender, soft cake texture while providing a subtle tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cinnamon apple cake.

• Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use various apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Just ensure they are firm and have a good balance of sweetness and tartness for the best results.

• How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the cake?

Toss the diced apples in a light coating of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking and ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the cake.

• Is there a way to make this cake more nutritious?

You can substitute some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, add chopped nuts for extra protein, or reduce the sugar slightly to make the cake slightly healthier without compromising its delicious taste.

Cinnamon Apple Cake Highlights

• Packed with fresh apples and warm cinnamon, this cake captures the cozy essence of autumn and brings a homemade touch to any gathering.
• Using basic pantry staples, this recipe turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.
• Whether served as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or elegant dessert, this cake delights everyone from kids to adults with its rich, comforting flavors.

Cinnamon Apple Cake Ingredient List

• Flour: A fundamental dry ingredient that provides structure to the cake.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender cake texture.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with the cake's caramelization.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• Apples: Fresh fruit that brings natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.

• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Help the cake rise and create a light, fluffy texture.

• Cinnamon, Vanilla: Add warm, aromatic flavor to the cake.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the topping.

• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps create a moist, tender crumb.

Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Savor pure autumn comfort with this homemade Cinnamon Apple Cake, brimming with warm spices and tender fruit. Delightful crumbs meld sweet apples and rich cinnamon, promising a delectable slice of seasonal bliss you’ll cherish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480 ml) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (300 g) apples, peeled and diced
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Baking and Topping:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350F (175C) and thoroughly coating a 9-inch cake pan with grease to prevent sticking.
2. Create a dry ingredient foundation by whisking flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium mixing bowl until perfectly integrated.
3. Develop a creamy base by vigorously beating softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture transforms into a light, airy texture. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring complete blending after each addition, then introduce vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
4. Construct the cake batter by gradually introducing dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Gently fold diced apples throughout the batter, distributing them evenly without overmixing.
5. Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, creating a smooth surface. Generously sprinkle brown sugar across the top, which will create a delectable caramelized crust during baking.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, monitoring until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean and the cake develops a golden-brown exterior.
7. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, which helps it settle and prevents crumbling. Carefully transfer to a wire cooling rack, letting it reach room temperature before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Select firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for maximum flavor contrast and structural integrity during baking.
• Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure smoother, more even cake texture and better ingredient integration.
• Dust apple pieces with a light coating of flour before folding into batter to prevent sinking and ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
• For gluten-free adaptation, replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and add an extra teaspoon of baking powder to maintain proper rise and texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg