Cinnamon Apple Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful blend of warm spices and sweet apples, perfect for any occasion.
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is not just a dessert, but a warm hug on a plate. It combines the sweetness of apples with the comforting spice of cinnamon, making it ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills your kitchen.
- Moist and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve at dinner parties.
The Perfect Fall Dessert
When the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm slice of Cinnamon Apple Cake. This cake captures the essence of fall with its fragrant spices and tender pieces of apple, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of cider or as a sweet end to a hearty meal, this cake brings warmth and joy to any occasion.
The combination of sweet apples and aromatic cinnamon creates a flavor profile that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. This recipe not only highlights the natural sweetness of apples but also enhances it with spices that evoke memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. It's a cake that tells a story, one slice at a time.
A Versatile Treat
One of the remarkable aspects of this Cinnamon Apple Cake is its versatility. It can be served as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert after dinner. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream for a light finish, or enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent experience. This cake adapts beautifully to any setting, ensuring that it remains a favorite among family and friends.
Feel free to experiment with different types of apples to find your perfect combination. Varieties like Granny Smith offer a tart contrast to the sweetness, while Honeycrisp adds a delightful crunch. You can also incorporate nuts or raisins for added texture, making this cake not only a delicious treat but also a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.
Storing and Serving 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, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature and it will taste as good as fresh-baked.
Serving this cake warm enhances its flavors, but it’s equally delicious at room temperature. For an elegant presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also elevate its appearance, making it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples
For the Topping
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Mix well to ensure all ingredients are properly incorporated.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over the top of the batter. Drizzle with melted butter.
Cool and Serve
Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before serving.
Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of your Cinnamon Apple Cake can help you enjoy it mindfully. Each slice provides a balance of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar, while the apples contribute dietary fiber and essential vitamins. The use of unsalted butter adds richness but can also be adjusted to fit dietary preferences, such as using a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
While it’s important to enjoy treats like this cake in moderation, incorporating fresh apples means you’re also getting the benefits of antioxidants and other nutrients. Pairing this cake with a source of protein, such as yogurt or ice cream, can create a more balanced snack or dessert option.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making the perfect Cinnamon Apple Cake, you’re not alone! A common concern is the texture; ensuring your butter is softened properly and not overmixing the batter will yield a moist, fluffy cake. Additionally, don't hesitate to adjust the sugar levels based on the sweetness of your apples or personal preference.
Another question often arises about using other fruits. While this recipe shines with apples, you can experiment with pears or even berries for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjustments in baking time may be necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different fruits instead of apples?
Yes, pears or berries can be substituted for apples.
→ How should I store leftover cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and store it covered.
→ Is it possible to freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped.
Cinnamon Apple Cake
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful blend of warm spices and sweet apples, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Charity Bowen
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples
For the Topping
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over the top of the batter. Drizzle with melted butter.
Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 4g