When the leaves start turning golden and the air feels crisp, nothing says “fall baking” like a warm slice of cinnamon apple cake. Moist, fragrant, and full of tender apple chunks, this cake blends the natural sweetness of apples with the cozy spice of cinnamon. It’s the kind of dessert that fills your home with the smell of autumn comfort.
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a brunch table, or simply craving a slice of something sweet with your coffee, this cake hits the mark every time.
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Why Cinnamon Apple Cake Is the Ultimate Fall Dessert
While pumpkin pies and spiced apple ciders get much of the spotlight, a cinnamon apple cake is just as nostalgic and maybe even easier to make. It’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for celebrating apple season.
Here’s why this cake is a must-bake fall treat:
- Seasonal goodness – takes advantage of fresh apples at peak flavor.
- Cozy spice blend – cinnamon enhances the apples, while nutmeg or allspice can add warmth.
- Simple prep – no complicated steps, just mix, bake, and enjoy.
- Versatility – delicious as dessert, brunch, or even an indulgent breakfast cake.
If you love apple fritter cake, apple walnut cake, or even apple coffee cake recipes easy, this cinnamon apple cake is a perfect addition to your fall dessert collection.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a moist and flavorful cinnamon apple cake:
- Fresh apples – firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up best.
- All-purpose flour – for structure.
- Granulated sugar & brown sugar – sweetens while adding caramel-like depth.
- Eggs – for lift and texture.
- Vegetable oil or melted butter – ensures moisture.
- Milk or yogurt – creates a tender crumb.
- Ground cinnamon – the star spice, warm and aromatic.
- Baking powder & baking soda – for rise.
- Salt – balances flavors.
- Optional add-ins – chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra texture.
👉 If you want an easy shortcut, you can adapt this from spiced apple cake or use apple coffee cake recipes easy as a base and just load it with extra cinnamon.
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
1. Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and chop apples into small cubes. Toss lightly with cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor.
2. Make the Batter
- Whisk dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon).
- In another bowl, beat eggs, sugars, and oil until smooth.
- Stir in milk or yogurt.
- Gradually fold in dry mixture until just combined.
3. Add Apples
Fold chopped apples into the batter. For extra indulgence, add walnuts or pecans here.
4. Bake
Pour into a greased 9×13 pan or round cake tin. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool
Allow cake to cool before slicing or serve warm with ice cream for a cozy dessert.
Decorating
Cinnamon apple cake is rustic and beautiful on its own, but a few touches can make it even more special:
- Cinnamon sugar topping – sprinkle on before baking for a sweet crust.
- Glaze drizzle – mix powdered sugar and milk for a quick drizzle.
- Cream cheese frosting – spread on top for a more decadent twist.
- Apple fan topping – arrange thin apple slices on top before baking for a rustic look.
If you’re inspired by apple cinnamon dessert ideas, you can also add a caramel drizzle for an extra cozy finish.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
This cake is flexible enough for breakfast, dessert, or coffee breaks:
- Morning treat – serve it as an apple breakfast cake with coffee or tea.
- Afternoon snack – pairs wonderfully with spiced chai or hot cider.
- Dessert centerpiece – serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Holiday table – pair it with other apple desserts with fresh apples for a seasonal spread.
Storage Tips
To keep your cinnamon apple cake moist and flavorful:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Lasts 4–5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze slices individually for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Pro tip: This is a moist apple cake recipe easy that actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.
FAQs About Cinnamon Apple Cake
Q1: What are the best apples to use?
Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape and balance the sweetness.
Q2: Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes – use almond milk or oat milk, and swap butter for oil or vegan butter.
Q3: Can I add nuts?
Definitely! Walnuts and pecans add crunch and pair well with cinnamon and apples.
Q4: How is this different from apple fritter cake?
Apple fritter cake is denser and often glazed, while cinnamon apple cake is lighter and fluffy.
Q5: Can I make it in advance?
Yes – bake a day before and store covered. The flavors will deepen overnight.
Q6: Can I turn this into cupcakes?
Yes – bake in muffin tins for 20–25 minutes for individual servings.
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Conclusion
A cinnamon apple cake is one of the best apple cake recipe ever contenders: simple, moist, spiced, and full of tender apple chunks. It’s perfect for fall, whether you’re serving it at brunch, bringing it to a family gathering, or enjoying a slice with coffee.