Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon and apples filling the kitchen. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day! This cinnamon apple cake is a longtime favorite in my household, especially as the leaves start to turn. It’s easy to whip up, incredibly moist, and has the most irresistible crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious, this cake has got you covered.

I have such fond memories of baking apple treats with my family as a kid. We’d go apple-picking in the fall, come home with bags full of fresh apples, and start thinking of all the ways we could use them. My mom and I would spend hours in the kitchen, peeling, chopping, and tossing apples with cinnamon and sugar. Every time I make this cake, it brings me right back to those autumn afternoons.

The origin of cinnamon apple cake

Cinnamon apple cake is a classic American dessert, inspired by the flavors of apple pie but in an easy-to-make cake form. With roots in traditional apple desserts, this cake combines elements of coffee cake with the coziness of a classic apple pie. The key ingredients—apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar—are staples in so many fall recipes, making this cake the perfect addition to any autumn gathering. Over the years, bakers have experimented with different versions, but the basic idea remains the same: a moist, tender cake filled with apples and topped with a sweet, cinnamon-y crust.

Key ingredients for the perfect cinnamon apple cake

This cake keeps things simple, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing out the best flavors and textures.

• Brown sugar: Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also moisture and a hint of molasses flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar and a tablespoon of molasses for a similar taste.
• Oil: Oil keeps the cake moist without the heaviness of butter. Any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works well. I’ve even tried this with coconut oil for a slightly tropical twist!
• Apples: The star of the show! Use baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold up well in baking and bring a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Chop them finely so they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon gives the cake its cozy, warming flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves if you want to spice things up a bit.
• Milk: Milk brings richness and helps bind the ingredients together. You can use regular or low-fat milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk.

Essential kitchen tools for this cake

Making this cake is straightforward, but a few key tools make the process smoother:

• Mixing bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for the batter and a small one for the cinnamon-sugar topping. Glass or stainless steel bowls work well.
• 9×13-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for a thick, moist cake with a nice ratio of cake to topping. If you don’t have this size, a 9×9 pan can work, but the cake will be thicker and may take longer to bake.
• Whisk or hand mixer: Mixing by hand with a whisk works just fine, but if you have a hand mixer, it’ll make the job even easier.
• Spatula: For folding in the apples and scraping every bit of batter into the pan.
• Toothpick: For testing doneness. When it comes out clean, you know the cake is ready.

Step-by-step: How to make cinnamon apple cake

Let’s get baking! This recipe is as simple as mixing, pouring, and baking—no fancy techniques required.

1. Prep your pan and oven
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. I like to use a bit of oil or butter and a dusting of flour to make sure nothing sticks.
2. Mix the wet ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, oil, egg, milk, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and creamy. You’ll notice the mixture looks glossy, and the brown sugar will dissolve slightly.
3. Add the dry ingredients
   Sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently—overmixing can make the cake tough. Stop stirring as soon as the flour disappears. The batter will be quite thick, but that’s what makes this cake so hearty and satisfying!
4. Fold in the apples
   Toss in your chopped apples and fold them into the batter with a spatula. Make sure the apple pieces are evenly distributed, so every bite has that juicy apple goodness.
5. Pour and smooth the batter
   Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. The batter will be thick, so take your time spreading it out.
6. Add the cinnamon-sugar topping
   In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter. This topping will create a lovely, crunchy crust as it bakes.
7. Bake to perfection
   Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Around the 40-minute mark, test the cake with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done. Let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Make it your own: Variations and adaptations

This cinnamon apple cake is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture may be slightly different, but it’ll still be deliciously moist.
• Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg and swap the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk.
• Lower sugar: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the brown sugar in the cake to 1 cup and use a sugar substitute for the topping. The cake will be less sweet but still tasty.
• Spiced up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the batter for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Apple varieties: Try using different apple varieties for a mix of flavors. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp brings extra sweetness.

Serving suggestions: Make it a cozy experience

This cake is perfect on its own, but if you want to dress it up a bit, here are a few ideas:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty, snow-dusted effect.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling fancy.

For a cozy autumn presentation, serve it on a rustic wooden board or in a vintage cake stand. Sprinkle a few apple slices or cinnamon sticks around the cake for a touch of seasonal charm.

Best beverages to pair with this cake

• Hot apple cider: The natural pairing! A warm mug of apple cider brings out the cinnamon and apple flavors in the cake.
• Chai tea: The spiciness of chai complements the cinnamon in the cake beautifully. Try a latte version for added creaminess.
• Hot chocolate: For a chocolatey twist, a mug of rich hot cocoa makes this cake feel extra indulgent.
• Earl Grey tea: The slight citrus notes in Earl Grey add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Iced vanilla latte: If you prefer a cold drink, a lightly sweetened vanilla latte pairs nicely with the cinnamon notes in the cake.

Storing and reheating tips

This cake keeps wonderfully for a few days, and you’ll love having leftovers!

• Room temperature: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 days on the counter.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the cake in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just note that refrigeration can make it a little denser, so warm it up before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. The cake will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, leave a slice at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Scaling the recipe for different group sizes

This recipe is pretty flexible! For a smaller group, you can halve the recipe and bake it in an 8×8-inch pan, adjusting the baking time to around 30-35 minutes. For a crowd, try doubling the recipe and baking it in a larger pan (just keep an eye on the baking time).

Troubleshooting tips and common issues

• Cake too dense? Make sure you’re not overmixing the batter. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, making the cake tougher.
• Soggy bottom? Be sure to measure the apples carefully. Too many apples can make the cake overly moist. Also, drain any excess liquid if your apples are particularly juicy.
• Dry cake? If the cake seems dry, check that your oven temperature is accurate. Baking at too high a temperature can dry it out.

Ready to bake this cozy cinnamon apple cake?

I hope you’ll give this cinnamon apple cake a try! It’s easy, comforting, and fills the kitchen with the most delicious aroma. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own—add extra spices, mix in some walnuts, or try a different type of apple. However you make it, this cake is sure to bring warmth to your home. Enjoy every slice!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, any neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or even coconut oil works well. Coconut oil will add a slight coconut flavor.

2. What kind of apples should I use?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or any tart baking apple is great for this recipe. Softer apples like Fuji may turn mushy.

3. Can I make this cake vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and use a plant-based milk.

4. How can I tell when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Be careful not to overbake.

5. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months.

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