Description
Cinnamon Apple Cake is a moist and tender dessert filled with juicy apples and warm cinnamon spice, perfect for fall or any time you crave a cozy, comforting treat. With a soft crumb and crisp golden crust, this simple cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, makes a delightful brunch addition, and is delicious topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
Fruits
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
Topping
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg ensuring they are evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes a few minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, then blend in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensuring a tender cake.
- Fold in Apples: Carefully fold in the peeled and diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour and Top Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle this topping evenly over the batter’s surface.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as is or with accompaniments like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweet batter and a more balanced flavor.
- This cake stores well at room temperature for up to 2 days or can be refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American