There’s something magical about the aroma of apples and cinnamon filling the kitchen. It’s warm, nostalgic, and feels like a hug in dessert form. This Apple Cinnamon Cake is a perfect balance of soft, moist cake with bursts of sweet, spiced apples in every bite. Whether it’s a crisp autumn morning or a cozy winter evening, this cake brings comfort and joy to any table.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and versatility—you don’t need fancy ingredients or techniques. With just one apple and a handful of pantry staples, you can create a beautifully textured cake with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping.
Plus, cinnamon isn’t just for flavor—it’s packed with antioxidants and helps regulate blood sugar, making this treat a little indulgence you can feel good about. Pair it with Strawberry Ice Cream for a balanced meal or enjoy it with a steaming cup of Hot Chocolate for the ultimate dessert experience.
This cake has been a favorite in my kitchen for years, especially during the holidays when the house smells like a bakery. It’s a recipe that’s easy to love, even easier to make, and impossible to resist. Now, let’s bake something amazing!
Why You Will Love This Dish?
- It’s foolproof! Even if you’re not an expert baker, this cake turns out perfect every time. The ingredients are simple, and there’s no need for complicated steps.
- The texture is incredible: The inside stays soft and fluffy, while the cinnamon-sugar topping creates a light crunch that makes every bite satisfying.
- Perfect for any time of day: Breakfast, snack, or dessert—this cake fits every occasion. It’s delicious on its own or with a little whipped cream.
- A little healthier than you think: Apples add natural sweetness and moisture, so you can even cut back on sugar if you like! Plus, cinnamon has metabolism-boosting benefits.
- Customizable to your taste: Swap apples for pears, add nuts for extra crunch, or drizzle with caramel for an indulgent twist.
Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch cake pan
- Oven
- Knife (for chopping apples)
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅔ cup white sugar
- ½ cup butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ cup milk
- 1 apple peeled and chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.
- Cream butter and white sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients (flour, baking powder) and gradually mix them into the batter, alternating with milk.
- Fold in chopped apples gently, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mix, then add the remaining batter and top with more cinnamon-sugar.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy warm!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 208kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Sugar | 17g |
| Sodium | 143mg |
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Cake
- Use the right apple variety: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp balance the sweetness and hold their shape while baking. Avoid overly soft apples, as they turn mushy.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing leads to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy texture.
- Layer the cinnamon sugar for extra flavor: Instead of just sprinkling it on top, add a layer in the middle of the batter for a richer, more even distribution of flavor.
- Let the cake cool slightly before slicing: This helps set the texture and prevents it from crumbling. But don’t wait too long—it’s best to enjoy it warm!
- Want a richer cake? Swap out the milk for buttermilk, or add a tablespoon of sour cream for extra moisture and a slight tang.
- Enhance the aroma and flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
- Storage matters: If you want the cake to stay soft, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and reheat when needed.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
