If you’re searching for the perfect slice of cozy comfort, look no further than this Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe. It’s a warm hug on a plate, combining tender apples swirled with fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg, all wrapped up in a moist, buttery cake. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this cake balances sweet and spice in the most irresistible way, making it an instant favorite that celebrates the best flavors of fall all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple pantry staples alongside fresh fruits and warming spices makes this recipe a breeze to pull together. Each ingredient plays a key role in giving the cake its moisture, flavor depth, and delightful texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to our cake.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Adds a gentle rise to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with yogurt to create a perfect crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that fills this cake with cozy warmth.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, earthy note for extra depth.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and moistness to every bite.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to a tender texture.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Offers a hint of molasses flavor and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with a sweet, fragrant touch.
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds tang and keeps the cake incredibly moist.
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples: Crisp Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples provide freshness and bursts of juicy sweetness.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This will ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when your batter is ready. Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for an easy release later. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining the dry ingredients first helps distribute the spices evenly throughout the cake, infusing every bite with that signature warmth.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is key – the air you incorporate here will give your cake a lovely lightness. The brown sugar also adds moisture and that caramel-like undertone that pairs so well with apples and cinnamon.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Yogurt
One at a time, beat in each egg to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and Greek yogurt (or sour cream). The yogurt adds a slight tang and keeps the cake moist while the eggs help with structure. This combination ensures your cake won’t be dry, even after baking.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender crumb; overmixing can make the cake dense. This gentle working of the batter allows the spices and flour to meld perfectly without compromising texture.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Carefully fold in the diced apples and nuts if you’re using them. The apples bring juicy bursts that contrast beautifully with the soft cake, while the nuts add fantastic texture and a nutty twist that’s simply irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The warm apple aroma will fill your kitchen and let you know your Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe is almost ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cake’s presentation and flavor by dusting a light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top or drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk. For extra indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream right beside your slice.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. If you want to elevate dessert time, try serving it alongside creamy custard or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced yogurt for a delightful contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your cake into bite-sized squares for a festive dessert platter or layer it with whipped cream and caramel sauce to make a rustic apple trifle. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine makes a charming homemade gift for friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe covered tightly at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, placing it in the refrigerator will keep it fresh for up to five days without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to two months, making it perfect for prepping ahead for future cozy moments.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes. This restores its soft texture and brings that heavenly apple-cinnamon aroma back to life.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples in the Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples. Just ensure the apples are firm to maintain texture after baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup for cup. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to keep the cake’s structure intact.
Can I omit the nuts if I have allergies?
Definitely! The nuts are optional and can be left out without affecting the overall flavor or texture of the cake. You might consider adding a bit of extra apple or some raisins for added interest instead.
What’s the best way to store the cake to keep it moist?
Keeping the cake in an airtight container at room temperature is ideal for a few days. If you refrigerate it, make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Can this cake be made into muffins instead?
Yes! The batter works wonderfully as muffins. Simply pour it into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. This creates portable, individual treats perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe is a true treasure—simple to make yet bursting with flavors that feel like a warm embrace. I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing this cake as I do. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, creating sweet memories with every bite. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the magic of cinnamon and apple goodness!
Print
Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight is a warm, spiced dessert perfect for fall. Featuring moist cake studded with diced apples and aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, this treat combines soft textures with a hint of crunch from optional walnuts or pecans. Easy to prepare and bake, it’s an ideal dessert to share any time of year.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Add-ins
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture in the cake.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure proper incorporation, then mix in the vanilla extract and the Greek yogurt or sour cream to add moisture and a slight tanginess.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold in the diced apples and, if using, the chopped walnuts or pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a glaze or powdered sugar.
Notes
- This cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
- You can top it with a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 5 days to keep fresh longer.
