Name: Amazing Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble); 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for crumble); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for crumble); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for crumble)

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Cinnamon apple cake has always felt like a warm hug in dessert form. I remember the first time I successfully baked this easy cinnamon apple cake from scratch, the entire house filled with the most incredible aroma of sweet apples and cozy cinnamon. It was a moment of pure kitchen magic! This homemade apple cinnamon cake is so simple to whip up, yet it tastes like it came from a fancy bakery. Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat for a crisp autumn afternoon or a delightful dessert to share, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Cake

This isn’t just any cake; it’s an experience! Here’s why this recipe will become your go-to:

Incredible Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet apples and warm cinnamon creates a truly delightful taste.
Quick Prep: You can have this ready for the oven in about 20 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight treat.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with real fruit and simple pantry staples, it’s a dessert you can feel good about.
Budget-Friendly: Uses common ingredients, proving that deliciousness doesn’t have to be expensive.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore its comforting taste and tender crumb.
Perfect Texture: Enjoy a wonderfully moist cinnamon apple cake every time.
Easy to Follow: This apple cinnamon cake recipe is designed for success, even for beginners.

Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Apple Cake

Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect spiced apple cake with cinnamon:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – this forms the rich base of our cake.
1 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness that complements the apples.
2 large eggs – bind everything together beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a lovely warm aroma and flavor.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of our cake’s structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cake rise to a perfect, tender height.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – works with the buttermilk for a lighter crumb.
1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
1/2 cup buttermilk – this is key to a wonderfully moist crumb.
2 cups peeled and diced apples – Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work wonderfully for this spiced apple cake with cinnamon, offering a lovely tartness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – essential for that cozy, spiced apple flavor.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble) – creates the base for our delicious topping.
1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for crumble) – adds caramel notes and crispness to the topping.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for crumble) – makes the crumble wonderfully rich and crumbly.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for crumble) – boosts the cinnamon flavor in our crunchy topping.

How to Make a Moist Cinnamon Apple Cake

Let’s get this delicious cake into the oven! Follow these simple steps for a perfectly moist cinnamon apple cake that smells as good as it tastes.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will release beautifully.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (1 stick) softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which is crucial for a tender cake.
Step 3: Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This dry mix provides the structure and leavening.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the 1/2 cup buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
Step 6: Gently fold in the 2 cups peeled and diced apples and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. The scent of cinnamon mingling with the apples is already a treat! This is where the magic happens in how to make cinnamon apple cake.
Step 7: Prepare the crumble topping. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Cut in the 1/4 cup cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 8: Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the prepared crumble topping uniformly over the batter.
Step 9: Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible! This is a truly quick cinnamon apple cake to make.
Step 10: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully cutting it into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious, homemade creation!

Amazing Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe - Cinnamon Apple Cake - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Homemade Apple Cinnamon Cake

Want to elevate your cake game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this cake extra special. These tips will help ensure your cake is a showstopper every single time.

Apple Choice Matters: For the best texture and flavor in your homemade apple cinnamon cake, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This provides a wonderful depth of flavor.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify better, creating a smoother batter and a more tender crumb. For more baking tips, check out general baking advice.
Crumble Perfection: For the crispiest crumble, make sure your butter is cold and cut it into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t overwork it!

What’s the secret to a perfect cinnamon apple cake?

The secret to a truly perfect, gooey cinnamon apple cake lies in using the right apples and not overmixing the batter. Using a combination of apples ensures a great flavor balance, and gentle mixing keeps the cake incredibly tender. For more information on apple varieties, you can consult apple variety guides.

Can I make this easy cinnamon apple cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the batter and crumble topping separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, assemble and bake as directed, noting it might need a few extra minutes if the batter is chilled.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cinnamon apple cake?

A common pitfall is overmixing the batter, leading to a tough texture. Another is using apples that are too soft, which can make the cake mushy. Ensure you’re using firm apples and mixing the batter only until just combined.

Amazing Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe - Cinnamon Apple Cake - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Your Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

This delightful cinnamon apple crumb cake is fantastic on its own, but serving it warm takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. I love pairing a generous slice with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream; the contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is pure bliss! Another favorite is a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which adds a lovely lightness. For an extra touch of autumn charm, consider a drizzle of caramel sauce over your slice. This apple spice cake with cinnamon also pairs beautifully with a warm cup of apple cider or coffee, making it perfect for any fall gathering or cozy afternoon treat. If you enjoy apple desserts, you might also like this classic apple pie recipe.

Nutrition Facts for Cinnamon Apple Cake

Here are the approximate nutritional highlights for each serving of this delicious cinnamon apple cake. Keep in mind these are estimates, as actual values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 150 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Apple Cake

Ensuring your delicious cinnamon apple cake stays fresh means proper storage. After baking, always let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the cake soggy. For keeping it fresh for up to 3-4 days, store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to preserve your fresh cinnamon apple cake for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This method helps maintain the cake’s moisture and flavor, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever you crave it.

To reheat your preserved apple cinnamon cake, you have a few options. If it’s just from the fridge, a few minutes in a warm oven (around 300°F or 150°C) will bring back its lovely warmth and aroma. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight first, then warm it as you would a refrigerated cake. You can also enjoy slices at room temperature or slightly warmed with a cup of tea or coffee. For other dessert ideas, consider these delicious dessert recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Apple Cake

What exactly is a cinnamon apple cake?

A cinnamon apple cake is a delightful baked dessert that typically features a tender cake batter infused with warm spices, most notably cinnamon, and studded with pieces of fresh apples. It’s often topped with a sweet crumble or glaze, creating a comforting and aromatic treat that’s perfect for autumn but delicious year-round. Its popularity stems from its simple yet satisfying flavor profile.

Why is cinnamon apple cake so popular?

The enduring popularity of cinnamon apple cake comes down to its universally loved flavor combination and comforting nature. The sweet, slightly tart apples paired with the warm, cozy spice of cinnamon evoke feelings of home and nostalgia. It’s a relatively easy dessert to make, making it accessible for home bakers, and its inviting aroma as it bakes fills the kitchen with a sense of warmth and welcome, making it a favorite for gatherings and everyday enjoyment.

Can I use different types of apples in my cinnamon apple cake?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are fantastic choices for their texture and flavor balance, feel free to experiment with other firm apples. Fuji, Gala, or even a blend can work beautifully. Just ensure they hold their shape when baked to avoid a mushy cake. The key is a good balance of sweetness and tartness.

How do I store leftover cinnamon apple cake to keep it fresh?

To keep your cake tasting its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, the refrigerator is a better option, though it might slightly dry out the cake. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. This ensures you can enjoy a slice of homemade goodness whenever the craving strikes!

Variations of Cinnamon Apple Cake You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic cinnamon apple cake, why not explore some delicious variations? For a perfectly portable treat, try turning this recipe into a cinnamon apple loaf cake. Simply pour the batter into a greased and floured loaf pan and adjust the baking time, likely needing around 45-55 minutes. If you’re looking for something truly special, consider a decadent cinnamon apple cake by adding a layer of cream cheese frosting or a rich caramel drizzle. For those with dietary needs, a gluten-free version can be made by swapping all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You could also add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter or crumble for an extra nutty crunch! If you’re interested in other baked goods, check out these easy cinnamon rolls.