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
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together with a mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Wet & Dry
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.
4. Add Apples & Bake
- Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Serve
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream for a pretty finish.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures your batter mixes smoothly.
- Don’t overmix – Overmixing creates a dense, tough cake.
- Choose crisp apples – Softer apples can turn mushy during baking.
- Add spice variety – A pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom adds warmth.
- Double it up – This recipe can be baked in a 9×13-inch pan if you’re feeding a crowd.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile enough to shine on any occasion:
- For breakfast: Pair it with coffee or tea as a sweet start to your day.
- For dessert: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce.
- For gatherings: Slice into squares and serve on a festive platter.
- For holidays: Dust with cinnamon sugar or a cream cheese glaze for extra flair.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
Variations to Try
One of the best parts about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun twists:
- Apple-Pear Cinnamon Cake – Swap half of the apples with pears for a fragrant fall combination.
- Crumble-Topped Cake – Add a buttery streusel topping made with flour, brown sugar, and butter.
- Caramel Apple Cake – Drizzle warm caramel over the cooled cake for extra indulgence.
- Glazed Cake – Mix powdered sugar and milk for a simple glaze to drizzle on top.
- Nut-Free Version – Leave out the nuts for a softer bite.
Healthier Swaps
Want to lighten up this recipe without losing flavor? Try these substitutions:
- Use whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour.
- Swap butter for coconut oil for a lighter twist.
- Replace some sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
- Add Greek yogurt in place of some butter to increase protein and moisture.
FAQs About Apple Cinnamon Cake
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have melded together.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for extra fiber.
Q: Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Yes, though the baking time may need to increase to about 50–55 minutes.
Q: Can I add more spices?
Of course! A teaspoon of apple pie spice makes a great addition.
The Heart of This Recipe
At its core, this Apple Cinnamon Cake is more than just a dessert. It’s about capturing the essence of fall and sharing it with loved ones. It’s the kind of cake that invites you to gather around the table, pour a warm cup of coffee, and enjoy simple pleasures.
If you’ve been looking for a cake that’s easy to bake, full of flavor, and guaranteed to impress, this recipe checks all the boxes. The best part? It’s a cake you’ll make again and again—not just for the taste, but for the memories it creates.
Final Thoughts
There’s no better way to celebrate apple season than with a homemade Apple Cinnamon Cake. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering, a weekend treat, or just because the craving strikes, this cake is a slice of pure comfort.
So grab those apples, warm up the oven, and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and apples baking together. You won’t regret it—and your family will thank you for it!