The Apple Cinnamon Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert packed with the sweetness of fresh apples and the warmth of cinnamon. It’s perfect for fall but is a delightful treat any time of the year. This simple and rustic cake is ideal for family gatherings, tea parties, or even as an afternoon snack.
In this guide, you’ll find the complete recipe, including ingredients, preparation steps, tips, preparation time, and calorie details.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
Apples (chopped): 3 medium-sized
All-purpose flour: 2 cups
Granulated sugar: 1 cup
Brown sugar: ½ cup
Eggs: 3 large
Butter (melted): ½ cup
Milk: ½ cup
Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
Ground cinnamon: 1½ teaspoons
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Optional Topping:
Powdered sugar: For dusting
Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans): ¼ cup
Instructions Apple Cinnamon Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Add the Apples
Fold the chopped apples into the batter gently until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean Apple Cinnamon Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
Once the cake has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
Optionally, sprinkle with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Tips for the Best Apple Cinnamon Cake
Choose the Right Apples: Use sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined Apple Cinnamon Cake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures better mixing and a smoother batter.
Customize Your Cake: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist or a handful of shredded coconut for extra moisture.
Serve Warm: For an extra special treat, serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Calories Per Serving
The calorie count for one slice (1/9th of the cake) is approximately:
- Apples: ~60 calories
- Flour: ~90 calories
- Sugar (granulated and brown): ~120 calories
- Butter: ~80 calories
- Milk: ~20 calories
- Other ingredients: ~40 calories
Total per serving (approximate): ~410 calories.
For a lighter version, reduce the sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this cake beginner-friendly.
- Moist and Flavorful: The apples add natural sweetness and moisture, while cinnamon provides a cozy warmth.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, this cake is perfect for gatherings or gifting.
Delicious Variations
- Apple Crumble Cake: Top the batter with a streusel crumble made from butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Apple Cinnamon Muffins: Divide the batter into muffin tins for portable, single-serving treats.
- Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent twist.
Conclusion
The Apple Cinnamon Cake is the perfect dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Its soft texture, sweet apples, and aromatic cinnamon make it a comforting treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to become a favorite.