Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

If you are craving something warm, comforting, and packed with the cozy flavors of fall, this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe is your ultimate go-to. Picture a tender, moist cake bursting with juicy diced apples and the perfect swirl of cinnamon that lingers in every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma and brings out heartfelt smiles from everyone at the table. Whether for a weekend treat, a holiday celebration, or simply because you deserve a little sweetness, this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe will soon become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to this cake’s delicious texture and flavor. Each simple component plays a key role, from tenderizing the crumb to adding natural sweetness and spice.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake providing structure and softness.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps with leavening and balances the acidity of the buttermilk.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the cake its irresistible warm aroma.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moistness to every slice.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and a luscious texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor with a lovely fragrant note.
• ½ cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess to balance the sweetness.
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples: The juicy star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and freshness.
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake releases perfectly once baked. This prep is key to giving you a smooth, clean slice later on.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Combining these first means the flavors and leavening agents distribute evenly, setting the stage for a consistent bake throughout the cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, helping your cake achieve that tender, airy texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time

Slowly add the eggs, one by one, beating well after each addition. This careful incorporation prevents the batter from curdling and ensures everything is beautifully emulsified.

Step 5: Stir in Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract adds a warm, floral complexity that complements the cinnamon and apples perfectly, making each bite extra special.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Starting and ending with the dry ingredients, gently mix just until combined. Overmixing here can make the cake tough, so be gentle! The buttermilk adds moisture and a subtle tang that brightens the flavors beautifully.

Step 7: Fold in Apples and Walnuts

Gently fold in the diced apples along with the walnuts if you choose to use them. This introduces bursts of juicy sweetness and crunch throughout your cake that make every bite exciting.

Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. A nice level batter ensures even baking and that perfect golden top.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with the intoxicating scent of cinnamon and baking apples as it cooks!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling prevents the cake from breaking and gives you slices that hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle the top with a little powdered sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream adds an irresistible creaminess that pairs beautifully with the spiced apple flavors.

Side Dishes

This cake shines when served alongside a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or a generous spoonful of Greek yogurt for a fresh, tangy contrast. A cup of hot tea or spiced cider rounds out the perfect cozy afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving warm slices of this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe topped with sautéed apples and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for an extra special dessert. Layer slices between whipped cream or spread with cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist perfect for celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, the fridge is fine, but bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen slices keep well for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy this delicious treat anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a low oven for a few minutes until heated through. Reheating revives the cake’s softness and lets those inviting cinnamon and apple aromas come back to life.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work beautifully by adding a bright contrast, sweeter apples such as Fuji or Honeycrisp will give you a milder, fruitier flavor. Just make sure to dice them evenly for consistent baking.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk or can I substitute it?

Buttermilk adds a bit of tang and tenderizes the cake crumb, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ½ cup milk with 1½ teaspoons of lemon juice or white vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I skip the walnuts if I have a nut allergy?

Definitely! The walnuts add a lovely crunch, but the cake will be just as delicious without them. You could also try adding sunflower seeds or leaving them out for a smooth, nut-free texture.

How can I make this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep an eye on the texture of your batter, as gluten-free flours sometimes absorb moisture differently.

What is the best way to dice the apples for the cake?

Make sure to peel and dice the apples into roughly ½-inch cubes. This size allows the apples to soften nicely during baking without turning mushy or sinking to the bottom of the cake batter.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe is one of those treasures that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its inviting mix of cozy spices and fresh apples makes it perfect for any occasion where you want to share a little comfort and joy. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortlessly this cake becomes a new favorite. Happy baking!

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