There’s something magical about the aroma of apples and cinnamon baking together in the oven. It’s the scent that instantly fills a home with warmth, nostalgia, and comfort. Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening, a holiday gathering, or just a simple weekend treat, this Apple Cinnamon Cake is the kind of dessert that makes you slow down and savor the moment.
This recipe was inspired by my grandmother’s kitchen traditions—every fall, baskets of freshly picked apples would sit on the counter, waiting to be transformed into pies, crisps, and cakes. Among them, her apple cinnamon cake always stood out. Moist, tender, and filled with chunks of juicy apples, it was the cake we’d sneak slices of even before dinner was served. Now, I’m sharing this recipe so you can bring that same cozy joy into your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Cake
- Simple ingredients – Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Perfectly moist and tender – Thanks to fresh apples and just the right balance of butter and milk.
- Warm and cozy flavor – Cinnamon pairs beautifully with apples to create that nostalgic fall taste.
- Versatile treat – Serve it as a dessert, a sweet brunch item, or even with your afternoon coffee.
- Customizable – Add nuts for crunch, swap apples for pears, or spice it up with nutmeg or ginger.
This cake isn’t overly fancy—it’s humble, wholesome, and made to be enjoyed around the table with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to bring this comforting cake to life:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch
Choosing the Best Apples
The variety of apple you choose can make a big difference:
- Granny Smith – Tart and firm, balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Honeycrisp – Naturally sweet with a satisfying crunch.
- Fuji or Gala – Softer, sweeter, and great if you want a milder apple flavor.
If you’re baking for the holidays, mix two different types of apples for extra depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Oven & Dry Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until combined.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
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