This Apple Cinnamon Cake is a moist and tender delight, bursting with flavors of fresh apples and warm cinnamon. It’s the kind of cake that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making it a perfect treat for crisp autumn days or any time you crave a comforting dessert. Each bite combines the sweetness of apples with the spicy warmth of cinnamon, enhanced by a soft, fluffy texture that makes this cake a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re looking for a special dessert to serve at a holiday gathering or a cozy treat to accompany your morning coffee, this Apple Cinnamon Cake fits the bill. It’s simple to make but impressively delicious, with a homemade taste that far surpasses anything you could buy at the store. Topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, this cake is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Full of Flavor: The cake is packed with chunks of juicy apples and rich cinnamon flavor.
- Easy to Make: This straightforward recipe yields a delicious cake with common pantry ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect as a dessert, a treat for a brunch, or a sweet addition to a potluck.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups peeled and chopped fresh apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or a cinnamon-sugar mix for topping
Instructions:
Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9×9 inch square pan.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate Sour Cream and Milk:
- Mix in the sour cream and milk until well combined. The batter should be creamy and smooth.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Fold in Apples:
- Gently fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before serving, if desired.
Storage Options:
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the cake refrigerated for up to a week.
- Freezer: Freeze slices of the cake wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips:
- Choosing Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
- Checking for Doneness: Since this cake is very moist, make sure the toothpick really comes out clean to ensure it’s fully baked.
This Apple Cinnamon Cake is not just a dessert, it’s a comforting experience, perfect for enjoying on a chilly day or anytime you need a little sweetness in your life. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!
