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: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and diced apples; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warm flavors of this Cinnamon Apple Cake, perfect for cozy gatherings.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:12:35.460Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake brings the warmth of baked apples and fragrant cinnamon together in a delightful dessert. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a comforting treat that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm and comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples
Moist cake texture that pairs beautifully with ice cream
Perfect for fall gatherings or any celebration

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, a birthday party, or a casual family dinner, this cake is sure to impress. The combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to take part in the joy of home-baked goodness.

The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. It can be served as a delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat alongside your morning coffee. No matter when you choose to indulge, this cake is bound to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Apple Cake

To achieve the perfect moist texture, make sure to use fresh apples. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully as they provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter; this will ensure your cake remains light and fluffy. Remember, a few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine!

If you want to elevate the flavors even further, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the spice mix. These warm spices complement the cinnamon and apples beautifully, creating a more complex flavor profile that your taste buds will adore. Finally, don’t forget to let the cake cool properly before slicing; this helps maintain its structure and makes for cleaner cuts.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake.

For the Cake

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

For the Topping

¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cinnamon Apple Cake.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk until well combined.

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts (if using) for the topping.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle the topping over, and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick 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, optionally with whipped cream or ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

This Cinnamon Apple Cake shines when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the spiced cake, bringing out the flavors of the apples and cinnamon. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce on top for a decadent finish.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, serving the cake with a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for a simple yet elegant presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Storing and Freezing

To keep your Cinnamon Apple Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. Just remember to allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you plan to make this cake ahead of time, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes! To thaw, simply leave it out at room temperature for a few hours or warm it gently in the microwave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use any type of apple, but firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.