Cinnamon Apple Cake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 4 cups peeled and diced apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in this moist and flavorful Cinnamon Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:36:37.546Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a family favorite, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of fresh apples. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm and comforting flavors that remind you of home
Moist texture that perfectly complements the spiced apples
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser

      

The Perfect Fall Dessert

Cinnamon Apple Cake is the epitome of fall flavors, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of fresh apples. This cake not only tastes fantastic but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will make your mouth water. It's the perfect treat for cozy gatherings, family get-togethers, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee on a chilly afternoon.

The addition of diced apples ensures that every bite is bursting with juicy sweetness. Whether you use tart Granny Smith apples or sweet Honeycrisp, the fruit adds a delightful texture that complements the moist cake beautifully. As the cake bakes, the apples create pockets of flavor that elevate this dessert to a new level.

A Versatile Recipe

What makes this Cinnamon Apple Cake truly special is its versatility. It can be served as a dessert, a sweet breakfast treat, or even a snack. Dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy it plain with your morning coffee for a simple yet satisfying start to your day.

Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste! You can swap out the apples for other fruits like pears or berries, add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor, or incorporate spices like nutmeg for a unique twist. This cake is forgiving and adaptable, making it a great base for your culinary creativity.

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect Cinnamon Apple Cake, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid a dense cake. Additionally, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar, which will help create a light and fluffy texture.

Another tip is to allow your cake to cool properly after baking. This helps improve the flavor and texture as it settles. For the best results, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This will prevent the cake from breaking apart and ensure that it retains its moistness.

Ingredients

For the Cake

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
4 cups peeled and diced apples

For the Topping

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the milk until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.

Pour and Top

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, then sprinkle over the top of the batter.

Bake

Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake!

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Apple Cake is delightful on its own, but there are numerous ways to enhance its presentation. Consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. Alternatively, a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the flavors and add a touch of indulgence. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee to create a cozy afternoon snack that everyone will love.

For a festive touch, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar or cinnamon before serving. This simple addition not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of sweetness that complements the cake's flavors beautifully.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Cinnamon Apple Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer longer storage, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For even longer preservation, you can freeze the cake. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Nutritional Information

While Cinnamon Apple Cake is undoubtedly a treat, being informed about its nutritional profile can help you enjoy it mindfully. Each slice provides a delightful balance of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar, along with fiber and vitamins from the apples. This makes it a more wholesome choice compared to many store-bought desserts.

If you're looking to make it a bit healthier, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or using less sugar. You can also experiment with reducing the amount of butter by using applesauce as a partial substitute, which can still yield a moist and delicious cake while cutting down on calories.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits in this cake?

Yes! Pears or peaches can be a great substitute for apples.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!