Apple Cinnamon Cake

 

Apple Cinnamon Cake: A Cozy Slice of Autumn All Year Round

There’s something universally comforting about the pairing of apples and cinnamon — like a hug from your kitchen. And when those flavors come together in a soft, tender cake? Magic happens. Apple Cinnamon Cake is the kind of dessert that feels right at home on a chilly autumn afternoon, yet it's so timeless and simple that you'll find yourself baking it in every season.

Whether you're looking for an easy bake to share with guests, a sweet treat with your morning coffee, or a dessert that fills your house with the scent of warm spices and baked apples, this cake is the answer.

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🍎 What Makes Apple Cinnamon Cake So Special?

This isn’t your average apple dessert. It’s rustic yet elegant, moist but not heavy, and filled with chunks of real apple in every bite. The cinnamon adds a warm, earthy spice that complements the fruit perfectly. It’s the kind of cake you don’t need to dress up — no frosting necessary — though a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of glaze never hurts.

This cake also travels and stores well, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a cozy homemade gift.

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🛒 Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt

• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)

• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

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👨‍🍳 How to Make Apple Cinnamon Cake

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two batches, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix.

Step 5: Add Apples (and Nuts)

Fold in the chopped apples and nuts if using. The batter will be thick and full of chunks — that’s a good sign.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, or top with a cinnamon glaze if desired.

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🍂 Optional Cinnamon Glaze

Want to take it up a notch? Whisk together:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp milk

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Drizzle over the cooled cake for a sweet finish.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance.

• Add a streusel topping for extra crunch and sweetness.

• Make it whole wheat by swapping in 1/2 to 1 cup of whole wheat flour.

• Double the recipe and bake in a 9x13-inch pan for larger crowds.

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🍰 Perfect For:

• Afternoon tea or coffee breaks

• Fall gatherings and holidays

• Sunday baking rituals

• Lunchbox treats and after-school snacks

• Breakfast (yes, cake for breakfast is always a good idea)

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🧊 Storing & Freezing

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.

• Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy.

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🏡 Final Thoughts

Homemade Apple Cinnamon Cake is the definition of cozy baking. It’s unfussy, deeply flavorful, and just sweet enough. One bite and you’ll be transported to a kitchen filled with the scent of apples bubbling on the stove and cinnamon dancing in the air.

Whether you're serving it at a fall gathering or sneaking a slice in your quiet morning moment, this cake is sure to bring warmth, comfort, and maybe even a little nostalgia.