Cinnamon Apple Cake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and chopped apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

A delightful blend of warm cinnamon and sweet apples makes this cake a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-23T03:39:33.256Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. The fragrant spices combined with the tartness of apples create a deliciously moist cake that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Warm spices that fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma
Moist texture with chunks of fresh apples
Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet treat any time

      

The Perfect Fall Dessert

Cinnamon Apple Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that captures the essence of fall. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples create a cozy atmosphere that invites family and friends to gather. This cake is a wonderful way to celebrate the bounty of the season, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of coffee.

What sets this cake apart is its delightful balance of sweetness and spice. Each bite reveals tender pieces of apple, which add moisture and a burst of flavor that complements the warm cinnamon beautifully. The aroma while it bakes fills your kitchen with a tempting scent that will have everyone asking for a slice.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a casual get-together, Cinnamon Apple Cake fits right in. It’s an incredibly versatile dessert that can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, making it suitable for any season. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat or serve it plain for a lighter option.

Not only is this cake delicious, but it’s also easy to make, allowing you to whip it up even on a busy day. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Storage and Serving Tips

Once your Cinnamon Apple Cake is baked and cooled, you might be tempted to dive in right away! However, this cake can be stored for several days, maintaining its moist texture and flavor. To store, simply cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, which will keep it fresh for up to a week.

When it comes to serving, this cake shines on its own, but you can elevate it further with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an extra special touch, serve it alongside whipped cream or a dollop of crème fraîche to enhance the flavors and create a delightful dessert experience.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Topping Ingredients

1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Fold in the chopped apples.

Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and walnuts.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the topping over the batter. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Apple Cake!

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Cinnamon Apple Cake turns out perfectly, measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid compacting it, which can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.

Don't skip the step of peeling and chopping the apples; this not only enhances the cake's appearance but also ensures that each bite is filled with tender fruit. Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.

Customizing Your Cake

One of the best aspects of Cinnamon Apple Cake is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice to create your unique flavor profile. You can also incorporate dried fruits or swap the walnuts in the topping with pecans or almonds for a delightful twist.

If you prefer a healthier version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. These small changes can still provide a delicious cake while catering to various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or berries for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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 before and keep it covered.

→ Is it possible to freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.