If you are searching for a warm, comforting dessert that instantly transports you to crisp autumn afternoons, this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe is the perfect treat to bake and savor. Bursting with tender chunks of tart apples and infused with aromatic cinnamon, each bite offers a delightful harmony of sweet and spice that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out. Whether you’re sharing it with family, serving it at a festive gathering, or simply treating yourself to a slice with a cup of tea, this cake brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s genuinely unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward ingredients is the first step toward baking a Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe that’s full of flavor and tender texture. Each component has a key role, from the cinnamon’s warm spice to the sour cream’s moistness, blending perfectly to create a moist and flavorful cake.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base structure for the cake’s tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Enhances leavening and helps balance the acidity of the apples and sour cream.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that unmistakable warm and cozy aroma.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moistness to the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together while contributing to the tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor depth of the cake.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that complements the apples perfectly.
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended): Provide juicy sweetness and a bit of tartness for contrast.
- Optional cinnamon sugar topping (2 tablespoons sugar + 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon): Creates a delightful crunchy layer on top if you prefer an extra touch of sweetness and spice.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan. This ensures your cake will bake evenly and release easily once done, setting the foundation for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This blend not only leavens the cake but also evenly disperses the cinnamon’s warmth throughout the batter for consistent flavor.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which makes the cake tender and airy. The creaming step is essential for that perfect soft texture everyone loves.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream
Beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure they fully incorporate, then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream. The sour cream adds a luscious moisture and slight tang to balance out the sweetness beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. Then fold in your diced apples, gently spreading the fruit evenly to offer bites of fresh apple in every slice.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and, if desired, sprinkle the optional cinnamon sugar topping over the surface for a crispy, sweet finish. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting into it so it sets perfectly.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a pretty finish, or top your slices with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to complement the warm spices and apple sweetness. A drizzle of caramel sauce also works wonders for an indulgent twist.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal afternoon treat. It also makes a lovely light dessert after a hearty meal, especially when served with a fresh fruit salad to brighten the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing the cake into smaller squares for a charming bite-sized dessert platter at your next gathering. You can also layer warm pieces with yogurt and granola for a delicious breakfast parfait with a fall twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe covered tightly at room temperature for up to three days to preserve freshness. Using an airtight container is the best way to prevent the cake from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cake slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well frozen for about two months without losing quality.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm again, simply let it thaw at room temperature, then heat it briefly in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven until warmed through. This brings back that fresh-baked feeling with ease.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples too. Just remember to adjust sugar slightly if your apples are very sweet.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream to keep it moist and flavorful while accommodating dairy-free diets.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can be folded into the batter along with the apples to add texture and a deeper flavor profile, making the cake even more delightful.
What if I don’t have sour cream or Greek yogurt?
If those aren’t on hand, you can substitute with an equal amount of buttermilk or even milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice to maintain the moisture and slight tang the recipe needs.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe is perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about baking this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe; it fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and offers comfort in every delicious bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, satisfying, and sure to become a beloved favorite. So why not give it a try and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of seasonal bliss?
Print
Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful cinnamon apple cake perfect for fall, featuring tender diced apples and warm cinnamon spice, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dessert pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce and serves 9.
Ingredients
Cake 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
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
Optional Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer or by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, providing a good base for the cake batter.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate fully, then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking them down.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread the batter evenly into the greased 9×9-inch pan. If desired, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the batter for added sweetness and texture.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with ice cream or caramel sauce.
Notes
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added richness.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
