Apple and Cinnamon Cake

Few things smell as inviting as apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. This Apple and Cinnamon Cake is warm, fragrant, and beautifully moist – the perfect cozy dessert for autumn evenings, afternoon tea, or anytime you crave a comforting slice of homemade sweetness. With tender apple pieces folded into a soft cake batter and a swirl of cinnamon sugar throughout, every bite is a balance of fruity freshness and spiced warmth.

Behind the Recipe

This cake is inspired by the flavors of a classic apple pie, but with the simplicity of a no-fuss cake. My grandmother used to make something similar, layering apples and cinnamon between spoonfuls of batter. As it baked, the apples softened into pockets of sweetness and the cinnamon created ribbons of spice. This recipe keeps that nostalgic charm while being easy enough for a weekday bake.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Apple cakes are beloved in many cultures, from German Apfelkuchen to Jewish honey-apple cakes. The apple-cinnamon pairing, however, has become a universal classic. In this version, the cinnamon not only flavors the batter but also creates a fragrant crust on top when sprinkled before baking. It’s a timeless treat that bridges rustic baking traditions with modern comfort food.

Why You’ll Love Apple and Cinnamon Cake

Moist & Flavorful: Apples keep the cake tender and juicy.
Easy to Make: Simple pantry ingredients, no fancy techniques.
Versatile: Perfect as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat.
Warm & Comforting: The cinnamon aroma makes the house smell incredible.
Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at gatherings or bake sales.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist for days and tastes even better the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use tart apples (like Granny Smith) for a nice contrast to the sweetness.
• Toss apple chunks in a little flour before folding into batter – prevents sinking.
• Don’t overmix the batter – it keeps the crumb soft.
• For an extra touch, drizzle with a simple glaze or caramel after baking.
• Serve slightly warm for the best flavor and aroma.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowls: For wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk & spatula: To combine the batter smoothly.
8-inch or 9-inch cake pan / springform pan: Ideal for even baking.
Knife & cutting board: To chop apples.
Measuring cups & spoons: For accuracy.

Ingredients in Apple and Cinnamon Cake

1. Apples: 2 medium (about 2 cups, peeled & chopped) – Provide sweetness, moisture, and texture.
2. All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups – The cake base.
3. Baking powder: 1 ½ teaspoons – Helps the cake rise.
4. Salt: ¼ teaspoon – Balances sweetness.
5. Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons – Warm spice note.
6. Eggs: 2 large – For structure and richness.
7. Sugar: ¾ cup – Sweetens the batter.
8. Brown sugar: ¼ cup – Deepens flavor and caramel notes.
9. Butter (melted): ½ cup – Adds richness.
10. Milk: ½ cup – For tenderness.
11. Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances flavor.
12. Optional topping: Extra cinnamon sugar for sprinkling.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Apples: Use pears or even peaches for variation.
• Butter: Swap with vegetable oil for a lighter cake.
• Milk: Dairy-free milk works perfectly.
• Sugar: Use coconut sugar or honey for a natural sweetness.
• Flour: Whole wheat flour or almond flour blend for a rustic touch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Apples: Choose firm apples that hold shape while baking (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady). They provide sweet-tart bursts that keep the cake moist.
Cinnamon: Not just for flavor – it creates a warm, cozy aroma that defines this cake.

Instructions for Making Apple and Cinnamon Cake

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8- or 9-inch cake pan.

2. Combine Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar, and brown sugar until light. Stir in melted butter, milk, and vanilla.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Toss apples in a little flour and fold them into the batter.

5. Cook to Perfection:
Pour batter into prepared pan. Sprinkle with remaining cinnamon and a little extra sugar. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Finishing Touches:
Cool slightly before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This cake is moist and tender thanks to the apples, with little bursts of fruit throughout. The cinnamon adds warmth, while the sugar topping forms a light crust for contrast. Every bite is soft, spiced, and satisfying.

For a cozy cookie companion: Check out our Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies for another fall-inspired treat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Line the pan with parchment for easy removal.
• Bake in muffin tins for grab-and-go portions.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Layer thin apple slices on top for a rustic presentation.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overbake – it will dry the cake out.
• Avoid mushy apples – use firm, baking-friendly varieties.
• Don’t skip cinnamon sugar topping – it makes a big difference.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: ~280

(Approximate values)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cake stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature, covered. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months – thaw and warm before serving.

Pair your cake with a savory side: Try our Broccoli and Potato Soup for a complete autumn meal.

How to Serve Apple and Cinnamon Cake

Delicious on its own, or elevate it with whipped cream, custard, caramel drizzle, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with coffee or spiced tea.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Cube leftover cake and turn into an apple-cinnamon trifle with whipped cream.
• Use as a base for bread pudding.
• Serve toasted with butter for breakfast.

Additional Tips

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for more depth.
• Swap white sugar with maple syrup for a fall twist.
• Double the recipe for a layered cake with cream cheese frosting.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange thin apple slices in a spiral on top before baking for a beautiful finish. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Variations to Try

• Apple Walnut Cake: Add chopped walnuts for crunch.
• Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle with caramel sauce.
• Gluten-Free Apple Cake: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Apple Crumble Cake: Add streusel topping before baking.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this with whole wheat flour?
A1: Yes, though it will be denser – try half all-purpose, half whole wheat.

Q2: Do I need to peel the apples?
A2: Not required – leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.

Q3: Can I use frozen apples?
A3: Yes, just thaw and drain excess liquid first.

Q4: How do I keep the cake moist?
A4: Don’t overbake, and store covered once cooled.

Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
A5: Yes – swap butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Conclusion

This Apple and Cinnamon Cake is the perfect blend of cozy and classic – simple enough for everyday baking, but special enough to share with friends and family. Moist, fragrant, and loaded with apple-cinnamon goodness, it’s a cake you’ll bake again and again.