Cinnamon Apple Cake is the ultimate dessert to bring the cozy flavors of autumn right to your table. With the perfect blend of juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of sweetness, this cake offers a comforting and satisfying treat. The addition of chopped walnuts adds a delightful crunch, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and easy to make. Whether served with vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar, each slice turns any moment into something special. Perfect for family gatherings or as a morning breakfast surprise, this cake will warm your heart.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake
- Versatile: This cake can be enjoyed as a breakfast, dessert, or snack at any time of day.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so you can easily whip this up without extra trips to the store.
- Texture Perfection: The combination of soft, moist cake, tender apples, and crunchy walnuts provides a delightful contrast in every bite.
- Fall-Inspired Flavors: The cinnamon and apple combo is a perfect reflection of the comforting vibes of autumn.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This cake is simple to prepare but still looks impressive enough to wow guests.
Key Ingredients for Your Cinnamon Apple Cake
- Firm, Tart Apples: Choose apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Softened Butter: Use room-temperature butter to blend seamlessly with sugars and create a light, airy batter.
- Sweeteners:
- Dark Brown Sugar: This adds a rich depth of flavor with its molasses notes, which pair perfectly with the apples and cinnamon.
- Light Brown Sugar: Can be substituted if you don’t have dark brown sugar on hand.
- Spices:
- Ground Cinnamon is the star here, giving the cake a warm, comforting flavor.
- Nutmeg and Allspice: A pinch of these spices will enhance the cake’s cozy aroma.
- Optional Nuts:
- Walnuts (roughly chopped) add crunch, but feel free to swap them for pecans or leave them out entirely for a nut-free option.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients using an electric mixer:
- ¼ cup softened butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
Beat until light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add in two eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in:
- 1 ½ cups chopped, peeled apples
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Scoop the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, slice the cake into wedges. For an extra special treat, serve with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy the delicious balance of tender apples, warm spices, and crunchy walnuts in every bite!
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Cinnamon Apple Cake
- Cozy Pairings: Enjoy with a warm beverage such as chai tea, apple cider, or a pumpkin spice latte to enhance the fall vibes.
- Elegant Touches: A light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream adds a beautiful finishing touch.
- Decadent Dessert: Drizzle with caramel or maple syrup to elevate the sweetness and richness.
Storage Tips and Prep Hacks
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm up a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that just-baked taste.
Exciting Variations for Your Cinnamon Apple Cake
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts for a simpler cake.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for an inclusive dessert.
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter with plant-based margarine and use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for a dairy-free, egg-free option.
- Extra Spice: Add ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper spice profile.
- Caramel Apple Twist: Mix in caramel bits or drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking for added sweetness.
Cinnamon Apple Cake: A Simple, Cozy Dessert
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its moist texture and sweet apple chunks, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of autumn. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with a warm drink on a chilly day, this cake is sure to bring comfort and joy.
If you love this recipe, don’t forget to like, share, or comment! Let’s keep the love for home-baked goodness alive!
Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Total Time: 1 hr | Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups chopped apples (peeled, about 2 medium apples)
- ¼ cup softened butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well, and then stir in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the apples and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve with your favorite toppings, like vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.