The BEST Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe

Name: The BEST Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and diced apples

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

Treat your senses to the warm and comforting flavors of this Cinnamon Apple Cake, where soft, moist cake meets chunks of tender apples and a hint of cinnamon spice. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a delightful dessert any time of year, this cake is easy to make and will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent experience.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-11-28T06:44:28.853Z

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a beloved recipe, passed down through generations. Every bite reminds us of cozy family gatherings and warm memories shared over a delicious dessert.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Easy to make with simple ingredients.
Moist and flavorful with real apple chunks.
Perfectly spiced with cinnamon.
Great for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

      

The Perfect Fall Dessert

As autumn arrives, the scents of cinnamon and apple can instantly elevate your mood. This Cinnamon Apple Cake embodies the essence of fall, making it an ideal treat for cozy gatherings. The sweetness of the apples combined with the warm spices creates a delightful harmony, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or attending a harvest festival, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Using fresh, seasonal apples not only enhances the taste but also adds a nutritious touch. Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamins, making this dessert a little less indulgent while still satisfying your sweet tooth. Choose your favorite variety—Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully—and enjoy their natural sweetness as they soften during baking.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

This Cinnamon Apple Cake shines best when served warm, but it also has the versatility to stand alone at any temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert experience, or enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter option. For a breakfast twist, serve slices with yogurt and a sprinkle of granola to create a delightful morning treat.

You can also experiment with toppings to enhance the cake’s flavors. Drizzling a caramel sauce over the top introduces an additional layer of sweetness that complements the apple and cinnamon beautifully. Alternatively, sprinkle some chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar for an added texture and visual appeal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare but possible!), this cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. You may notice it gets even more flavorful as the flavors meld together over time.

To enjoy the cake warm again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat individual slices for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the microwave for a quick reheating, but be cautious as it can become rubbery if overcooked. A quick warm-up restores that fresh-baked feel, ensuring that every bite remains delicious.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups peeled and diced apples

Make sure to use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Cream Butter and Eggs

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time and stir in vanilla.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Fold in diced apples.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm!

Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.

Sharing the Love

Cooked with love, this Cinnamon Apple Cake is perfect for sharing with friends and family. It’s a fantastic addition to potlucks, birthday celebrations, or even just a casual weekend brunch. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort and flavors that go into every slice.

Additionally, consider presenting the cake on a beautiful platter and garnishing it with apple slices or a cinnamon stick to enhance its visual appeal. A homemade dessert like this speaks volumes about your thoughtfulness and culinary skills.

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t hesitate to mix things up! You can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or even peaches during the spring and summer months. If you prefer a nutty flavor, adding walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch and richness to the cake.

For those who are looking to reduce sugar, alternative sweeteners can also be utilized, just be sure to adjust the measurements accordingly. Experimentation in the kitchen can lead to new family favorites that keep bringing everyone back for more!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different kind of apple?

Yes, you can use any kind of apple, but tart varieties work best for balancing the sweetness.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.