Cinnamon Apple Cake

As the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s nothing more comforting than the sweet and spiced aroma of a freshly baked Cinnamon Apple Cake. This delightful dessert combines tender apples with a warm cinnamon flavor, creating a perfect treat for cozy gatherings or a simple family dessert. Whether you’re celebrating the season or simply craving a homemade cake, this recipe will make you fall in love with the flavors of fall.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups diced apples (peeled)

Directions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prepare for the cake batter.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients ensures your cake will be flavorful and perfectly spiced.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Once beaten, mix in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cake.
5. Add the Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples. These fresh apples provide moisture and sweetness, making every bite burst with flavor.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and beautifully risen.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 12 servings

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Warm for Comfort: To enhance the cozy, autumn flavors, serve the cake slightly warm, straight from the oven or reheated in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
2. Add Toppings: For an extra indulgence, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a rich caramel sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream also pairs wonderfully with this spiced dessert.
3. Pair with Drinks: This cake goes beautifully with hot beverages like cinnamon-spiced tea, apple cider, or a steaming cup of coffee for the ultimate fall experience.
4. Garnish with Fresh Apples: For a decorative touch, you can top the cake with thin slices of fresh apples or sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to enjoy the cake within a couple of days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it moist and delicious for up to 3-4 days.
2. Refrigeration: For longer freshness, place the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to a week and still maintain its flavor and texture.
3. Freezing: If you want to make the cake ahead of time, freeze individual slices or the entire cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
4. Reheating: Reheat leftover cake by placing a slice in the microwave for 10-20 seconds or warming it in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore its moist texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Cinnamon Apple Cake stays fresh and tasty while offering the best experience for your guests!

Variations

1. Caramel Apple Cake:
For a richer flavor, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake once it’s baked. You can also add small pieces of caramel candy into the batter or swirl caramel sauce through the cake before baking for extra sweetness.

2. Nutty Apple Cake:
Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter. The crunchy texture will complement the softness of the cake, adding a satisfying bite with each piece.

3. Apple Cinnamon Streusel Cake:
Top the batter with a cinnamon-sugar streusel before baking. Simply mix 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/4 cup butter. Sprinkle it generously over the batter for a delightful, crumbly topping.

4. Gluten-Free Apple Cake:
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free for the perfect texture and flavor.

5. Spiced Apple Cake with Chai:
Infuse the cake with the warm, aromatic flavors of chai tea by adding 1 tablespoon of chai spice mix to the batter along with the cinnamon. This variation brings an exotic twist to the classic apple cake.

6. Apple Pear Cake:
For a fruity twist, substitute half of the apples with pears. The soft, juicy texture of pears pairs perfectly with the apples, making the cake even more flavorful and moist.

7. Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake:
Transform your cinnamon apple cake into a coffee cake by adding a layer of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter between two layers of the batter. The result is a cake with a beautiful marbled look and a rich, buttery texture.

8. Apple Cranberry Cake:
Add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the apples by mixing in 1/2 cup of fresh or dried cranberries. This variation gives the cake a festive touch and an extra burst of flavor.

9. Vegan Apple Cake:
To make this cake vegan-friendly, swap the eggs for a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), and replace the milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk. Use vegetable oil or coconut oil for the fat.

10. Apple and Cinnamon Swirl Cake:
Create a beautiful marbled effect by swirling cinnamon into the batter. Simply take 2 teaspoons of cinnamon mixed with 2 tablespoons of sugar and sprinkle it over the top of the batter. Use a knife to swirl it through the cake for a pretty, swirled pattern.

These variations offer endless possibilities to customize your Cinnamon Apple Cake and make it uniquely your own! Whether you want to add texture, sweetness, or a bit of spice, these ideas will take your cake to the next level.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of apples for this cake. Popular choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples. A mix of tart and sweet apples will provide a nice balance of flavors.

2. Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can make this cake without eggs by using an egg substitute like a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg). This will help maintain the cake’s structure and moisture.

3. How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The cake is done when a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes.

4. Can I freeze this Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture might be denser. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour.

6. Can I use a different type of oil?
You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil as a substitute for vegetable oil. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but will work well in this recipe.

7. How do I store leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for longer storage.

8. Can I double the recipe to make a larger cake?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger cake. Use a 9×13-inch pan or divide the batter between two 9-inch round cake pans. Be sure to adjust the baking time, as it may take a little longer to bake.

9. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, you can add nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter. Stir in about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.

10. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of this Cinnamon Apple Cake by replacing the eggs with flaxseed mixture and the milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk. Be sure to use a dairy-free oil as well.

These FAQs should help you with any questions you may have while baking or storing your Cinnamon Apple Cake! Enjoy this delicious dessert, and feel free to experiment with different variations!

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is the perfect dessert to enjoy during the fall season. Its soft, spiced texture combined with the sweetness of apples makes it a comforting treat for any occasion. Easy to make and delicious to eat, this cake brings the warmth of autumn right into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking!

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