Cinnamon Apple Cake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and diced apples; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and fresh apples, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:00:34.451Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is not just a dessert; it's a warm hug in cake form. With every slice, you’ll experience the perfect blend of sweet apples and aromatic cinnamon.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture that complements the apples perfectly
Aromatic cinnamon aroma that fills your kitchen
Easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers

      

The Perfect Fall Dessert

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing more comforting than a warm slice of Cinnamon Apple Cake. This delightful dessert harnesses the essence of autumn, featuring fresh apples and aromatic spices that evoke memories of cozy gatherings and family traditions. Whether you're hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to please everyone at the table.

The combination of cinnamon and apples is a classic pairing that never goes out of style. The warm spice enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Each bite of this cake is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, making it a must-try recipe for the season.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Cinnamon Apple Cake turns out perfectly every time, it's important to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour, as too much can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing, which helps achieve that desired fluffy texture.

When it comes to the apples, choose a variety that holds up well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake, while their firm texture adds a delightful bite. Don’t forget to dice them evenly to ensure they cook through uniformly, allowing for an even distribution of flavor in every slice.

Serving Suggestions

This Cinnamon Apple Cake can be enjoyed on its own, but feel free to elevate your dessert experience with a few simple additions. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can add a creamy contrast to the warm cake. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving, enhancing the flavors and making it even more indulgent.

For a delightful breakfast option, serve slices of this cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it a perfect companion for your morning routine or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it alone, this cake is guaranteed to brighten your day.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups peeled and diced apples

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in vanilla and buttermilk.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture over the batter.

Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage Tips

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 shelf life, you can refrigerate it, although this might alter the texture slightly. To enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature, or heat it in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can have a comforting slice of cake ready whenever the craving strikes.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe is delicious on its own, don't hesitate to get creative with variations. For a nutty twist, add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter or topping. If you're a fan of dried fruits, consider incorporating raisins or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.

You can also experiment with spices by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice, which complements the cinnamon beautifully. For a healthier version, swap out some of the granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup, allowing the natural sweetness of the apples to shine through even more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, pears or peaches can also work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can this cake be frozen?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.