Table of Contents

Introduction

Apple Cinnamon Cake is one of those desserts that instantly makes a house feel like home. The smell of apples baking with cinnamon fills the kitchen with warmth, reminding you of crisp fall days, cozy sweaters, and family gatherings around the table. Unlike fancier layered cakes, this one is simple, rustic, and full of flavor—just the way a comforting dessert should be.

I first discovered this recipe during a trip to a local orchard. After picking more apples than I knew what to do with, I looked for a simple cake to highlight their flavor. The result was this tender, moist cake that has since become a family favorite. Every bite has chunks of soft apples wrapped in a warmly spiced batter, perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.

This cake doesn’t need heavy frosting or fancy decorations—its beauty lies in its simplicity. Serve it as a casual dessert, a holiday treat, or even as a sweet breakfast alongside Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad for balance. And if you love fruity cakes, you’ll also enjoy Blueberry Sour Cream Pound Cake.

Ingredients – Apple Cinnamon Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Directions – Apple Cinnamon Cake

Prep Oven & Dry Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
Combine Wet & Dry
- Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk.
- Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
Add Apples & Bake
- Fold in diced apples and nuts (if using).
- Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake 40–45 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.
Cool & Serve
- Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

Apple choice: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance.
Spices: Add nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for extra warmth.
Nut-free: Omit nuts for a simple, kid-friendly version.
Glazed finish: Drizzle with a light vanilla or caramel glaze for a sweeter touch.
Pairing idea: Enjoy with Creamy Mushroom Soup for a cozy fall meal.

Storage

Room temperature: Keep covered up to 3 days.
Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before serving.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Custom Time (Cooling Time): 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8–10 slices

Tools Used

Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
Whisk and spatula
9-inch cake pan
Wire rack

FAQs about Apple Cinnamon Cake

1) What type of apples are best for this cake?
A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. Granny Smith balances the sweetness, while Honeycrisp or Gala add natural flavor. You can also use just one type—adjust the sugar depending on apple sweetness.

2) Can I add a glaze or sauce on top?
Yes! A simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla) or a caramel drizzle makes the cake extra special and gives it a glossy finish.

3) How do I keep the cake moist and not dry?
Use room-temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing once the flour is added, and fold in diced apples for extra juiciness during baking.

4) Does this cake freeze well?
Absolutely. Slice the cake, wrap each portion tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then rewarm slightly before serving to bring back its soft texture.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Cake is the definition of cozy comfort. With its moist crumb, warm spices, and tender chunks of apple, it’s a cake that feels homemade in the best way possible. It’s versatile enough to serve as dessert, a coffee break snack, or even breakfast.

Simple to make yet full of flavor, it’s a dessert you’ll come back to again and again. For even more apple dessert inspiration, check out the fall baking ideas on AllRecipes.

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