Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a bake that tastes like a cozy fall afternoon, look no further than this Cinnamon Apple Cake. Each forkful is tender and moist, bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in a soft, buttery crumb. Whether you’re serving it with coffee in the morning, as an after-dinner treat, or sharing it with friends at a potluck, this classic homemade dessert is loaded with autumnal flair, easy enough for bakers of any skill level, and absolutely irresistible!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Cinnamon Apple Cake is wonderfully straightforward—just a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples come together to make magic. Each item plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, aroma, and texture in every slice.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the cake with structure, creating a tender, moist crumb.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leaveners help the cake rise and keep it light and fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch sharpens all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
• Ground cinnamon: The signature spice that gives Cinnamon Apple Cake its warm, comforting aroma.
• Ground nutmeg: A dash of nutmeg pairs beautifully with cinnamon and apples for a richer flavor profile.
• Unsalted butter, softened: The backbone of a moist and buttery cake base—be sure it’s soft for easy mixing.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light texture.
• Brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that complements the apples.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding richness.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses an extra layer of flavor and warmth to the cake.
• Sour cream: Makes the cake extra moist, tender, and just a little bit tangy to balance the sweetness.
• Peeled and chopped apples: The freshest part of this dessert—use a mix of sweet and tart apples for best results.
• Powdered sugar (optional): For a simple, pretty dusting on top just before serving.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan & Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Setting up your pan and oven in advance ensures a smooth, stress-free baking experience and perfectly baked cake every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This step is essential to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, so each slice of your Cinnamon Apple Cake is flavorful and rises just right.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Grab a large bowl and beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates air pockets that help make the cake super tender. It also ensures each bite has a lovely caramel undertone thanks to the mix of sugars.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, which brings all the cake flavors together. This step is all about building a smooth, creamy batter base for the apples to shine.

Step 5: Incorporate the Sour Cream

Mix the sour cream into your wet mixture until the batter is silky and smooth. Sour cream is the not-so-secret ingredient that takes the moistness up a notch, making every slice of this Cinnamon Apple Cake impossibly soft.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense instead of fluffy. A few streaks of flour are okay—it’s about to get another stir when the apples go in!

Step 7: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold your peeled and chopped apples into the batter. The apples add juicy bursts of flavor and ensure each slice of Cinnamon Apple Cake is fruit-filled and moist. Use a spatula to avoid crushing the apple pieces and keep the batter airy.

Step 8: Spread, Bake, and Cool

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared baking dish. Place it in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Cool the cake completely in the pan—this sets the crumb and makes slicing easier. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish, if desired.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar looks beautiful atop a cooled Cinnamon Apple Cake, but you can also get creative—add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a little crunch, too!

Side Dishes

This cake is stunning all on its own, but it pairs especially well with a mug of hot coffee, chai, or apple cider. For dessert, serve with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a fruit salad for a lighter finish. It’s also perfect as part of a brunch spread next to quiche or savory scones for a sweet contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Cinnamon Apple Cake in individual squares topped with a tiny apple slice for a party-worthy look. For family gatherings, slice big, generous pieces and serve on vintage plates for a nostalgic feel. You can also cut it into smaller bites and stack them on a tiered cake stand with cinnamon sticks tucked around for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is warm, pop it in the fridge to keep it fresher longer. The flavors deepen and the texture stays incredibly moist, making it just as enjoyable the next day.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully! Cut into individual slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. To keep toppings like powdered sugar looking nice, freeze the cake plain and dust just before serving.

Reheating

If you’d like to serve Cinnamon Apple Cake warm, simply microwave a slice for 15–20 seconds until just heated through. For a slightly crisp edge, reheat in a toaster oven at 300°F for about 7 minutes. Enjoy it warm with your favorite toppings for a bakery-fresh experience right at home.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! Mixing sweet and tart apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji brings great flavor complexity. Use whatever you love or have on hand for your Cinnamon Apple Cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for regular flour (make sure it contains xanthan gum). The cake texture remains moist and delicious!

Can I make Cinnamon Apple Cake muffins instead of a whole cake?

Of course! Divide the batter into lined muffin tins, fill about three-quarters full, and bake at the same temperature for 22–26 minutes. You’ll have portable, bakery-style apple cake muffins in no time.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt works as a perfect substitute and will keep your cake just as moist and tangy. Use a full-fat version for the richest result.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for the softest texture, but if you prefer a little more bite and color, you can leave the skin on. It’s all about personal preference, and both ways will make a lovely Cinnamon Apple Cake.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a tried-and-true recipe that never fails to delight with its tender crumb, bursts of juicy apple, and the irresistible aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. It’s a treat you’ll reach for again and again, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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