Moist and flavorful, Cinnamon Apple Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Its delightful blend of warm spices and sweet apples makes it an irresistible choice for gatherings, holidays, or simply a cozy family treat. This easy apple cake recipe features a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping that elevates its taste and texture, making it a standout addition to your dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a warm, inviting taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this cake suits any occasion.
- Perfectly Moist: The buttermilk ensures a tender crumb that keeps the cake moist and delicious.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this cake, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Cinnamon Apple Cake, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: The right size ensures even baking, giving your cake the perfect texture.
- Mixing Bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk: Quickly combines wet ingredients for a smooth batter without lumps.
Ingredients
Moist cinnamon apple cake topped with cinnamon sugar crunch.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar (packed)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (properly measured)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk (regular or low-fat ok)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
Apples
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and chopped baking apples
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the brown sugar, oil, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir just until incorporated; be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apples until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into the greased baking pan.
Step 6: Create Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined.
Step 7: Add Topping to Batter
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the batter.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Enjoy this delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake as a wonderful end to any meal!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake
Serving your delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake can elevate its enjoyment. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that can complement the flavors of this moist dessert.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the warm spices in the cake.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- Warm caramel sauce brings a sweet, buttery flavor that enhances the apple and cinnamon notes.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream provides a refreshing balance to the dense cake.
Add Nuts for Crunch
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a satisfying crunch and additional flavor.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- Pairing your cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a perfect afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Apple Cake
To achieve the best results when making your Cinnamon Apple Cake, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples will give your cake the best flavor and texture.
- Measure flour properly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid using too much flour, which can make your cake dense.
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender and moist.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting helps maintain its structure.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Apple Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Cinnamon Apple Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options you might consider.
- Chai Latte: The spiced flavors of chai perfectly complement the cinnamon in the cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie, pairs wonderfully with sweet desserts.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cake.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, drizzling some chocolate sauce can add a decadent twist.
- Custard Sauce: A warm custard sauce enhances the flavors and adds creaminess to each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a cinnamon apple cake can be a delight, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.
- Using the wrong apples: Not all apples work well for baking. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Skipping the buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and richness. If you don’t have any, consider making a substitute with milk and vinegar.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much or too little flour can ruin your cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Ignoring baking times: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. You want it baked just right.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cinnamon apple cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Cinnamon Apple Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Cinnamon Apple Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the cake on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 20-30 seconds, checking to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Cinnamon Apple Cake so moist?
The combination of brown sugar and buttermilk gives this cake its signature moistness.
Can I use other spices in my Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in nutmeg or allspice for added flavor depth.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Apple Cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!
Can I add nuts to my Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add crunch and complement the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This cinnamon apple cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its warm spices and moist texture make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or other fruits. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting dessert!
Cinnamon Apple Cake
Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of warm cinnamon and sweet apples in a moist, tender cake. Perfect for any occasion from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings, this easy apple cake features a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping that adds both texture and flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s an approachable recipe for bakers of all skill levels. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar (packed)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and chopped baking apples
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix brown sugar, oil, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla until combined.
- Add flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples gently.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- For the topping, combine granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter; sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith for the best texture. Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method to avoid excess. Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure.
