When autumn rolls around, there’s nothing better than the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the house. This Cinnamon Apple Cake is the perfect dessert to capture the warmth and coziness of the season. Soft, moist, and filled with chunks of sweet apples, it’s topped with a delightful cinnamon sugar layer that adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, this cake will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the cake, you’ll need basic pantry staples: all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon form the dry mix. Softened unsalted butter is creamed with granulated and brown sugar to create a rich base. The eggs and vanilla extract enhance the cake’s flavor and texture, while milk ensures a moist crumb. Finally, three cups of chopped apples are folded into the batter, infusing every bite with fruity sweetness.
The topping is a simple blend of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, which adds a beautiful, caramelized crust.
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter until creamy. Add both sugars and continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as the batter is smooth. Gently fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, for a balanced flavor. Ensure the butter is at room temperature to achieve a fluffy batter. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients or drizzling a simple glaze over the cooled cake.
Serving Suggestions
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is best served slightly warm, paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a cozy afternoon snack, enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea. The cake’s rustic charm also makes it a perfect addition to brunch spreads or holiday dessert tables.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
Can I make this cake without eggs? Yes, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
What other fruits can I use? While apples are classic, this recipe works well with pears or even fresh peaches. Just be sure to adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
How can I tell if the cake is done? Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Apple Cake embodies the essence of comfort food. Its rich, tender crumb paired with chunks of sweet apples and a spiced topping makes it an irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking it for a family dinner or indulging in a quiet moment at home, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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Cinnamon Apple Cake
Description
A moist and tender Cinnamon Apple Cake filled with chunks of fresh apples and topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar crust. Perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3 cups peeled and chopped apples
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch dish.
2️⃣ Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
3️⃣ Cream butter and sugars in a large bowl until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
4️⃣ Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture.
5️⃣ Fold in apples and pour batter into the dish.
6️⃣ Mix sugar and cinnamon for topping and sprinkle over the batter.
7️⃣ Bake for 35-40 minutes, then cool before serving