Moist, spiced, and full of tender apple chunks, this Apple Cinnamon Cake is the perfect balance of cozy flavors and comforting texture. Whether you’re baking for a fall dessert, a coffee break treat, or a holiday gathering, this simple yet flavorful cake is guaranteed to please.
Best of all, it’s easy to make with everyday ingredients and can be enjoyed plain, glazed, or even with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist & Tender – Thanks to fresh apples folded into the batter.
- Warmly Spiced – Cinnamon enhances the cake without overpowering it.
- Versatile – Perfect for dessert, brunch, or paired with coffee or tea.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.
🥘 Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- 2 apples, diced (preferably tart, like Granny Smith)
- ½ cup walnuts or pecans (optional)
👩🍳 Method
- Preheat Oven – Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar – In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla.
- Combine Wet & Dry – Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Fold in Add-Ins – Stir in diced apples and nuts (if using).
- Bake – Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve – Let cake cool in the pan before slicing. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with glaze.
💡 Notes & Variations
- Best Apples: Tart varieties (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn) give the best flavor.
- Spice Boost: Add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice for extra warmth.
- Glaze Option: Whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk and drizzle over cooled cake.
- Freezer Friendly: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
🍴 Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Cake is the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again. With its moist crumb, tender apple pieces, and cozy cinnamon flavor, it’s perfect for every season—but especially comforting in fall and winter.
Serve it warm with coffee or tea, and enjoy a slice of homemade comfort. 🍎☕
