Cinnamon Apple Cake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake is the perfect blend of tender apples and warm spices, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Fiona Carter

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:24:39.369Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a family favorite that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and fresh apples. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings and makes a wonderful treat with your afternoon tea.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple
  • Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
  • Easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones

A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Cinnamon Apple Cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that resonates with both comfort and nostalgia. Whether it's a family gathering, a holiday feast, or simply a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress. The combination of sweet apples and aromatic cinnamon creates a warm embrace that invites everyone to take a slice. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

This cake is versatile enough to suit any occasion, from birthdays to potlucks. Its easy preparation makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, so you can whip it up without stress. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite. With its heartwarming flavors, this Cinnamon Apple Cake has the potential to become a beloved family tradition.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Apple Cake

To achieve the best results with your Cinnamon Apple Cake, consider using a mix of apple varieties. Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp will add a nice contrast to the warm spices, while tart apples like Granny Smith can enhance the overall flavor profile. Be sure to peel and dice the apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly throughout the cake.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter. This addition not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful crunch. If you prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the cinnamon in the batter or topping. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it your own with simple tweaks.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Cinnamon Apple Cake has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it for longer, refrigerate it, where it will last for about a week. To enjoy it warm again, simply pop individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature.

When serving, consider garnishing each slice with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant touch. This cake also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon snack. Whether you're enjoying it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, this Cinnamon Apple Cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups peeled and diced apples

For the Topping

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Make sure to use fresh apples for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

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

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter. Bake in the preheated oven 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. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake!

The History of Cinnamon and Apples

Cinnamon and apples have been a classic pairing for centuries, often featured in desserts, pies, and pastries around the world. The warm spice of cinnamon complements the natural sweetness of apples, making this duo a favorite among bakers. Historical records suggest that cinnamon was valued as a luxury spice in ancient times, often used in royal dishes, while apples have been cultivated for thousands of years, symbolizing health and abundance in various cultures.

In American cuisine, the combination truly shines, especially in the iconic apple pie. However, this Cinnamon Apple Cake offers a delightful twist, providing a moist and tender texture that elevates the traditional pairing. It's a testament to how classic flavors can be reimagined in new and exciting ways, bringing freshness to beloved recipes.

Health Benefits of Apples and Cinnamon

Both apples and cinnamon are packed with health benefits, making this cake not just a delicious treat but also a nutritious choice. Apples are rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut. They are also a good source of vitamins C and K, contributing to overall health and wellness. The antioxidants found in apples can help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Cinnamon, on the other hand, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been linked to improved heart health and blood sugar regulation. Incorporating these ingredients into your diet can provide a range of health benefits, allowing you to enjoy your dessert guilt-free. So, while you indulge in this Cinnamon Apple Cake, know that you're also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can use any variety of apples, but tart apples like Granny Smith work best.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Cinnamon Apple Cake

This delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake is the perfect blend of tender apples and warm spices, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration45 minutes
Overall Time65 minutes

Created by: Fiona Carter

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  3. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 3 large eggs
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  7. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  8. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  9. ½ teaspoon salt
  10. 2 cups peeled and diced apples

For the Topping

  1. 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  2. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Step 03

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 04

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

Step 05

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping.

Step 06

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 07

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 28g
  • Protein: 3g