Cinnamon Apple Cake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 slices
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; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warmth of a homemade Cinnamon Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2025-12-21T06:10:57.221Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a family favorite that combines the richness of cake with the freshness of apples, spiced perfectly with cinnamon.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple.
Moist and tender texture that keeps you coming back for more.
Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy night in.

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Cinnamon Apple Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cake is sure to impress. Its delightful aroma wafts through the air as it bakes, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that beckons everyone to the kitchen.

This cake is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any season. The combination of tender, juicy apples and aromatic cinnamon not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes a sense of nostalgia. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing the experience and making it a truly memorable treat.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Cinnamon Apple Cake, make sure to use fresh, firm apples. Varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp lend a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring your cake is flavorful and moist. Additionally, be cautious not to overmix the batter when combining the dry ingredients with the wet. A few lumps are okay; this will help keep the cake tender and light.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter. These ingredients complement the apple and cinnamon beautifully, adding texture and a delightful surprise in every bite. Remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add more ingredients, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Cinnamon Apple Cake has cooled, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will stay fresh for about a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

This cake is also perfect for freezing. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds. Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate it even further!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your 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
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Cinnamon Apple Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream together 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 Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined.

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter to create the topping.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter, and bake for 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 it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Apple Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce!

FAQs about Cinnamon Apple Cake

One common question is whether you can substitute the buttermilk in this recipe. While buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and moisture, you can create a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to your batter.

Another frequently asked question is how to prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the cake. To avoid this, make sure to coat the diced apples in a little bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This will help them stay suspended throughout the cake while it bakes.

Pairing Your Cake

Cinnamon Apple Cake is delightful on its own, but you can enhance your dessert experience by pairing it with various accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the cake's warm spices and fruity flavors. For a more sophisticated touch, serve it with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted nuts.

For beverages, consider serving your cake with a steaming cup of chai tea or a glass of spiced apple cider. These drinks complement the cake's flavors beautifully and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, you can substitute with pears or peaches for a different flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered until you're ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.