Welcome to my simple and tasty Cinnamon Apple Cake recipe! If you love warm, sweet flavors combined with juicy apples, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. I’ll guide you through every step, from mixing the ingredients to achieving a delightful golden crust. Let’s dive in and make a cake that brings warmth to any gathering!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
Add-ins
– 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– ½ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
When making this cake, gather all these ingredients first. The dry ingredients create the base. The wet ingredients give moisture and sweetness. The apples add flavor and texture. You can choose to add nuts for a nice crunch. The topping sugar gives a sweet finish. Each part plays a role in making this cake a delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing the Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. Grease the pan with butter. Then, dust it lightly with flour. This prevents the cake from sticking later.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Mix well and set it aside.
Creaming Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Beat this mixture until it looks light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add 3 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it blends smoothly.
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to combine the mixtures. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Alternate this with 1 cup of buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry mix. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the cake tender.
Adding Apples and Nuts
Prepare your apples by peeling, coring, and dicing them. Coat the apples with 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. If you want to add nuts, use ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. Gently fold the apple mixture into the batter. Make sure the apples are evenly spread.
Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar over the batter for a crunchy topping. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get a soft and fluffy cake, measure your ingredients correctly. Use a scale for accuracy or spoon flour into a cup and level it off. Mix the dry ingredients well before adding them to the wet mix. This ensures even distribution. When combining wet and dry, mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Adjusting Baking Time
Baking times can vary based on your oven. Start checking around 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If not, give it a few more minutes. Remember, every oven is different. Always trust your senses; the cake should look golden on top.
Enhancing Flavor
Want to make your cake even better? Consider adding a dash of cloves or ginger for warmth. You can also mix in a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist. A teaspoon of almond extract can add depth to the flavor. Feel free to get creative with spices!

Variations
Gluten-Free Option
If you want a gluten-free cake, use gluten-free flour. You can try almond flour or a blend that replaces all-purpose flour. Make sure to check the package for the right measurements, as they can differ. Using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend is often a good choice. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without gluten.
Apple Variations
Choosing the right apples makes a big difference. I recommend using Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor. They balance well with the sweetness of the cake. Honeycrisp apples also work nicely for their crisp texture and sweetness. You can mix different kinds for more flavor. Try using 2 cups of diced apples, which is about 2 medium apples.
Adding Spices
Spices can add depth to your cake. Consider adding ground cloves or ginger for an extra kick. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon of each. You can also mix in some allspice or cardamom for a warm flavor. These spices pair well with the cinnamon and can elevate your cake to new heights. Play around with the amounts to find your perfect blend.
Storage Info
Best Way to Store
To keep your Cinnamon Apple Cake fresh, wrap it well. Use plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents the cake from drying out. Store the cake at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a few days.
How Long Does it Last?
At room temperature, the cake lasts about 3 days. If you refrigerate it, it can stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. The cold helps keep the flavors strong and the cake moist.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the cake, first let it cool completely. Then, cut it into slices or leave it whole. Wrap each slice or the whole cake in plastic wrap. After that, wrap it in foil for extra protection. Place it in a freezer bag or container. This method keeps the cake fresh for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. Then, bring it to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can use other fruits! Pears, peaches, or berries work great. Just chop them up like you do with apples. If you choose a fruit that is juicier, reduce the buttermilk slightly. This helps keep the cake from getting too wet.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will mimic buttermilk’s tangy flavor. You can also use plain yogurt or sour cream, thinned with a bit of water.
How to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
To keep your cake from sticking, grease the pan well with butter. Then, dust it lightly with flour. Make sure to tap out the excess flour. You can also use parchment paper for extra protection. Cut it to fit the bottom of the pan for easy removal.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake this cake ahead of time. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge or freezer. Just remember to serve it at room temp or warm it slightly before serving.
This guide covered all you need to bake a delicious apple cake. We explored the right ingredients, from dry to wet, plus tasty add-ins. I shared step-by-step instructions to make your baking easy. I also included tips for texture and flavor, variations for gluten-free needs, and smart storage ideas.
Now, you have all the tools to create a delightful dessert that impresses. Enjoy your baking journey and savor each bite!
