A Timeless Treat for Every Season

If you’re searching for a dessert that captures the essence of comfort, warmth, and homemade goodness, look no further than this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe. With the perfect balance of tender apples, aromatic cinnamon, and a buttery crumb, this cake is a cozy classic that’s simple enough for a weekday treat yet elegant enough for a holiday dessert table.

Whether you’re baking for your family, planning a brunch, or simply craving a sweet bite to accompany your coffee, this cake fits the bill. It’s a nostalgic dessert that feels like a warm hug—moist, slightly spiced, and studded with chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Cake

This recipe is perfect for:

Baking beginners: It’s a straightforward, no-fuss cake that comes together in one bowl.
Busy families: Quick prep, easy cleanup, and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a winner.
Autumn enthusiasts: Although perfect year-round, it shines brightest in fall when apples are in season.
Sweet tooths looking for balance: Not overly sugary, it leans into natural apple sweetness and a hint of spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features pantry staples with a few fresh additions. Here’s the full list:

1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
2 eggs
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups chopped and peeled apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar. This step is essential—it creates a light, fluffy base.

3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In the same bowl, add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

5. Add Apples and Walnuts

Fold in the chopped apples and walnuts. The apples add moisture while the nuts give a delightful crunch.

6. Bake the Cake

Spoon the batter evenly into your greased cake pan. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best experience—especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this cinnamon apple cake, you’ll need:

9-inch round cake pan
Large mixing bowl
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Vegetable peeler and knife (for prepping apples)
Cooling rack

Tips & Tricks for Success

Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a more balanced flavor.
Don’t skip the brown sugar—it adds depth and richness that white sugar alone can’t provide.
Toast your walnuts for 5 minutes at 350°F before adding them to the batter to enhance their nuttiness.
Want more moisture? Try replacing half the butter with applesauce.
Add a crumble topping made with brown sugar, flour, butter, and oats for a bakery-style finish.

Variations to Try

This base recipe is versatile and open to creative spins:

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or dried cranberries.
Apple-Pear Blend: Replace half the apples with chopped pears for a fruity twist.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to deepen the fall flavors.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Leftovers:

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To keep it moist, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between the cake and the lid.

Freezing:

You can freeze this cake! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat briefly in the microwave or oven.

What to Serve With Cinnamon Apple Cake

This cake is delicious all on its own, but here are some pairing ideas to elevate your serving:

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream – Classic and always satisfying.
Maple drizzle – A light pour of warm maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness.
Caramel sauce – For indulgent dessert lovers.
Hot beverages – Pair with a chai latte, spiced tea, or strong black coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, but it will change the texture slightly. Use 1/2 cup of vegetable or canola oil for a softer, moister cake.

What kind of apples should I use?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn apples are all excellent choices. Mix two types for more depth.

Can I make this cake in a square pan?
Absolutely! Use an 8×8-inch square pan and watch the bake time—it might vary slightly.

Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for the best texture, but if you don’t mind a slightly chewier bite, you can leave them on.

How do I know when it’s done?
The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of simple pleasures and the joy of home baking. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or reheated with a scoop of ice cream, it’s bound to bring smiles to the table. Its cozy flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a go-to dessert you’ll return to again and again.

Love this recipe?
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Cozy Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe