Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe

If you are longing for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in cake form, this Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender, spiced cake studded with juicy chunks of fresh apples, it brings all the cozy flavors of autumn into each bite. It’s moist, fragrant, and beautifully textured, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or just a sweet moment to yourself. You’ll find that this recipe balances the sweetness and spice so well, it quickly becomes a kitchen favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe is incredibly simple, yet every single one plays a crucial role. From the tender crumb created by the baking soda and baking powder to the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the fresh burst of apple pieces, these ingredients come together to form a cake that’s anything but ordinary.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure and softness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly for that perfect fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for lift and lightness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, fragrant spice that’s essential to this recipe’s character.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly without overpowering the apple notes.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give lift to the cake’s texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings subtle depth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tangy balance.
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples: Fresh apple pieces bring juicy sweetness and a tender bite.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Add delightful crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A light finish that adds a touch of elegance.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan to ensure your cake bakes perfectly without sticking. This sets the stage for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Combine Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients is what gives your cake a light, spiced crumb and balanced rise.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with the sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is critical to achieving the cake’s tender texture and helps incorporate air for lightness.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then stir in the vanilla extract which adds a subtle but essential depth of flavor.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with spoonfuls of sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts if using. These add bursts of juiciness and textural contrast that make every bite delightful.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared springform pan, smoothing the surface so it bakes uniformly.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and apple as it bakes.

Step 9: Cool and Remove from Pan

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, allowing the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling fully is key to getting clean slices.

Step 10: Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

For a pretty finishing touch, dust the cake lightly with powdered sugar just before serving. This elevates the presentation and adds a subtle sweetness.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can make your Apple Cinnamon Cake look irresistible, but you can also top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped nuts over the top adds visual appeal and tasty texture.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon snack. For a more substantial dessert, serve alongside a scoop of apple or cinnamon-flavored ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance those cozy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve individual slices with a side of fresh apple slices or a pinch of cinnamon sugar sprinkled over top. You could also turn this cake into a trifle by layering chunks with whipped cream and apple compote for an impressive presentation that makes the most of this classic Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Cinnamon Cake keeps wonderfully at room temperature for up to two days when stored in an airtight container. For longer freshness, refrigerate it; this will keep the cake moist for up to five days.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It freezes beautifully for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To enjoy your cake as if freshly baked, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This revives the cake’s moist texture and enhances the cinnamon aroma.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for the Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Crunchy apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great because they hold their shape and add a nice tartness, balancing the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Is it necessary to use sour cream or can I substitute it?

Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang, but plain yogurt is a perfect substitute. Both keep the cake moist without weighing it down.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can enjoy this Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe gluten-free. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure.

What if I don’t have nuts? Can I skip them?

Definitely! Nuts are optional and only add extra crunch and flavor. The cake is delicious without them if you have allergies or prefer to leave them out.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The best way is to insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, the cake is done. Also look for a golden top and edges pulling slightly away from the pan.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe. It’s an easy, comforting dessert that feels both special and familiar at the same time. Whether you make it for a cozy winter evening or to brighten up a sunny afternoon, it’s sure to become one of your go-to cakes. So grab those apples and get baking — your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you!

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