Cinnamon Apple Cake: The Ultimate Fall Baking Recipe

Cinnamon apple cake, a symphony of warm spices and tender fruit, is more than just a dessert; it’s a hug in cake form. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon swirling through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of baked apples – that’s the magic we’re about to create together. Have you ever wondered why this particular cake evokes such strong feelings of nostalgia and comfort?

The history of apple cake stretches back centuries, with variations found in countless cultures. Apples, one of the earliest cultivated fruits, have always been a symbol of abundance and warmth. Cinnamon, a spice prized since ancient times, adds a touch of exotic luxury. Combining these two ingredients creates a timeless treat that transcends geographical boundaries.

What makes cinnamon apple cake so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The moist, tender crumb of the cake, studded with soft, sweet apples, is perfectly complemented by the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a festive holiday gathering. I find that the simple act of baking this cake brings a sense of peace and joy, and sharing it with loved ones makes it even more special. So, let’s get baking and create a cake that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3 cups peeled and diced apples (about 3 medium apples, I like using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• For the Crumble Topping:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• For the Optional Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or apple cider
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparing the Crumble Topping:

Okay, let’s start with the crumble topping. This is super easy and can be done ahead of time. It adds such a delightful texture and flavor to the cake, you really don’t want to skip it!

1. In a medium bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
2. Add the 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of cold butter, cut into small pieces. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (my preferred method!), cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small pieces of butter still visible – that’s what creates the lovely crumble texture.
3. Stir in the 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts, if using. I love the nutty crunch they add, but the crumble is also delicious without them.
4. Set the crumble topping aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the cake batter. This helps the butter stay cold and prevents the topping from melting too quickly in the oven.

Making the Cinnamon Apple Cake Batter:

Now for the main event – the cake batter! This is where all the delicious flavors come together. Don’t be intimidated by the number of ingredients; it’s a pretty straightforward process.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also use baking spray with flour if you prefer. This will ensure that your cake comes out easily.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter and 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be noticeably lighter in color and texture.
4. Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the 1 cup of buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. So, you’ll add about 1/3 of the dry ingredients, then 1/2 of the buttermilk, then another 1/3 of the dry ingredients, then the remaining buttermilk, and finally the last 1/3 of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
6. Gently fold in the 3 cups of peeled and diced apples. Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Assembling and Baking the Cake:

Almost there! Now it’s time to put everything together and get this cake in the oven.

1. Pour the cake batter into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the top of the batter. Don’t be shy – the more crumble, the better!
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 45 minutes.
4. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to slice.

Making the Optional Glaze:

While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the glaze, if desired. This adds a touch of sweetness and makes the cake even more decadent. It’s totally optional, but I highly recommend it!

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk or apple cider, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk or apple cider, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.
2. Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.

Serving and Storing:

Now for the best part – enjoying your delicious cinnamon apple cake! This cake is wonderful served warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also dust it with a little extra cinnamon for a pretty presentation.

To store, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days. If you refrigerate the cake, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Tips and Variations:

• Apple Varieties: I like using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for this cake. The Granny Smith apples provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake, while the Honeycrisp apples add a touch of sweetness and a crisp texture. You can also use other apple varieties, such as Gala, Fuji, or Braeburn.
• Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans or walnuts, you can omit them from the crumble topping. You can also substitute them with other nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the cake batter and crumble topping.
• Glaze Variations: Instead of a simple powdered sugar glaze, you can make a caramel glaze or a cream cheese glaze. To make a caramel glaze, melt 1/2 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of packed light brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. To make a cream cheese glaze, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth.
• Make it Ahead: You can make the cake batter and crumble topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake the cake, simply assemble it and bake as directed.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another cake recipe; it’s an invitation to experience the warm, comforting flavors of autumn any time of year. The moist, tender crumb, the sweet-tart apples, and that unmistakable cinnamon spice – it all comes together to create a truly unforgettable treat. I genuinely believe this cinnamon apple cake is a must-try for anyone who loves baking, or simply enjoys a delicious slice of cake with a cup of coffee.

But don’t just take my word for it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples. Granny Smiths will give you a more tart flavor, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples will add extra sweetness. You could even try a mix of varieties for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Presentation: A simple dusting of powdered sugar is all you need to showcase the cake’s rustic charm.
* Warm and Cozy: Serve a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert. A drizzle of caramel sauce would also be divine!
* Breakfast Treat: This cake is surprisingly delicious for breakfast! Pair it with a yogurt parfait or a side of fresh fruit for a satisfying start to your day.
* Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. Toasted nuts on top would also be a lovely addition.
* Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of warm spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the batter.
* Cream Cheese Frosting: For a truly decadent treat, top the cooled cake with a tangy cream cheese frosting. The contrast of flavors is simply irresistible.
* Apple Cider Glaze: Reduce apple cider on the stovetop until it thickens slightly, then drizzle it over the cake for an extra layer of apple flavor.
* Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious and inclusive treat. Just be sure to use a blend that’s designed for baking.
* Individual Cakes: Pour the batter into muffin tins for individual cinnamon apple cakes, perfect for portion control or a grab-and-go snack. Reduce the baking time accordingly.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the kind of cake that brings people together, sparks conversation, and creates lasting memories. It’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or simply a cozy weekend at home.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a truly exceptional cinnamon apple cake. I can’t wait to hear about your baking adventures! Please, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Share your photos on social media and tag me – I’d love to see your creations! Happy baking! I am sure you will enjoy this recipe as much as I do.