Combines classic apple and cinnamon flavors in every bite
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Moist and fluffy texture with chunks of real apple
Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday baking
Easy to make with minimal prep
Makes your kitchen smell amazing
Delicious served warm or cold
Freezes well for later
Can be made ahead of time
Great with or without frosting or glaze
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples, peeled and chopped
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Unsalted butter
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Vanilla extract
Milk or buttermilk
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk or buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 8 to 10 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 40–45 minutes Cooling time: 20 minutes Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
Swap out some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Use a mix of apple varieties for more complex flavor.
Add a crumble topping for a coffee cake-style version.
Turn it into cupcakes or muffins for individual servings.
Use a bundt pan and glaze for a more decorative presentation.
Storage/Reheating
Store the apple cinnamon cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. You can also freeze the cake (whole or in slices) for up to 3 months. Wrap well in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
How do I keep the cake moist?
Use fresh apples and don’t overbake. Measuring your flour correctly and using the right fat (butter or oil) also helps maintain moisture.
What are the best apples for this cake?
Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best as they hold their shape and add a balance of sweetness.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, vegetable oil or canola oil can be used instead of butter for an even moister texture, but the flavor will slightly differ.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I add a glaze or frosting?
Absolutely. A simple vanilla glaze or cream cheese frosting complements the apple-cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apples?
You can substitute part of the chopped apples with unsweetened applesauce, but the texture will be softer and more cake-like.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Yes, but baking time may need to be increased by 10–15 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
Is this cake suitable for breakfast?
Definitely. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea and isn’t overly sweet, making it great for breakfast or brunch.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double it and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time accordingly and check with a toothpick for doneness.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Cake is everything you want in a comforting homemade dessert—easy to make, filled with warm spice and sweet apple flavor, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re baking for a cozy evening or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection.
This Apple Cinnamon Cake is a cozy, moist dessert filled with warm spices and tender chunks of apple. Easy to make with pantry staples, it’s perfect for fall or anytime you crave a comforting, homemade treat.
Ingredients
2 cups apples, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk or buttermilk, until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze before serving.
Notes
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for more flavor complexity.Add nuts or dried fruit for texture and variety.Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.Great served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
