Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of homemade cake, and when apples and cinnamon are involved, it instantly evokes cozy afternoons, crisp fall mornings, and the irresistible aroma of home baking. This Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is exactly that kind of treat—light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, with tender chunks of fresh apples folded throughout and a delightful crunchy cinnamon sugar topping that gives each bite just the right amount of texture.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone looking for a simple dessert that feels special, this apple cake is easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite.

Why This Apple Cake Stands Out

Many apple cakes can be dense, overly sweet, or dry, but this recipe strikes the perfect balance. Here’s what makes it shine:

• Moist and fluffy texture thanks to buttermilk and a careful mixing method.
• Generous apple chunks that give bursts of natural sweetness in every bite.
• Crispy, buttery cinnamon sugar topping that adds texture and a caramelized flavor without being overpowering.
• Simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it approachable for home bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatility: Serve it warm with honey butter, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses fresh, crisp apples, giving each bite a natural sweetness and juiciness.
• Lightly spiced, so it’s not overpowering—just the perfect hint of cinnamon.
• Can be made in a single 9×13 pan, making cleanup easy.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—it’s as versatile as it is delicious.
• Crowd-pleaser: Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday meals.
• Customizable topping: Add nuts, oats, or drizzle with caramel for an extra-special touch.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s the full ingredient list, divided into components, so you know exactly what you’ll need. This recipe yields 12 servings.

Apple Cake

• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1/3 cup oil (canola, vegetable, or olive oil; see notes for alternatives)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon white vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups chopped Honeycrisp apples (approximately 2 medium apples)

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this cake smoothly, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing batter
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements
• 9×13 baking dish (buttered or lined with parchment paper)
• Fork for mixing and pressing the cinnamon sugar topping
• Knife and cutting board for chopping apples
• Toothpick for testing doneness

Optional: A small bowl for mixing the cinnamon sugar topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions for a perfectly baked apple cake.

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Proper preheating ensures even baking and a tender, moist cake.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1/3 cup oil
• 1 egg

Stir until just combined—overmixing can make the cake dense. Then add:

• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + vinegar mixture)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix gently until smooth.

3. Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle in:

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Fold into the wet mixture slowly until just combined. Avoid overmixing for a light, airy texture.

4. Fold in Apples

Carefully fold in 2 1/2 cups chopped Honeycrisp apples, ensuring even distribution. The batter should be thick but not dry.

5. Prepare the Pan

Butter a 9×13 baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter evenly into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

6. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, combine:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Mix with a fork until clumps are broken down and the texture resembles damp sand. Sprinkle evenly over the cake batter.

7. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center to test for doneness—it should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs.

8. Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Optional: Serve with honey butter (2-3 tablespoons softened butter + 2-3 tablespoons honey) or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips & Variations

Apple Choices

• Honeycrisp is ideal for sweetness and crispness.
• Granny Smith or Gala can work for a tarter flavor.

Oil Options

• Canola, vegetable, or light olive oil work best.
• For a richer taste, try melted butter or coconut oil.

Spice Adjustments

• Add 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a warm spice profile.
• Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar if you like a crunchier topping.

Dietary Adaptations

• Dairy-free: Use non-dairy milk with vinegar instead of buttermilk.
• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

Flavor Boosts

• Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) to the topping.
• Drizzle caramel sauce or sprinkle powdered sugar before serving.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Sweet, cinnamon-spiced, and naturally fruity.
• Texture: Light, fluffy, with tender apple chunks and a crisp topping.
• Best side dishes: A dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a smear of honey butter.

Nutritional Overview (Estimated per Serving)

Component	Amount
Calories	~280
Protein	2 g
Carbs	44 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	28 g

• Dietary notes: Vegetarian-friendly, nut-free (unless nuts are added), can be made dairy-free.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Batter can be prepared up to a day ahead and refrigerated; bake when ready.
• Cake keeps well at room temperature for 2 days, covered.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• To reheat, microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.

2. Can I make this cake in a round pan instead of 9×13?
Yes, a 9-inch round pan works. Baking time may need adjustment—start checking at 35 minutes.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans, and adjust baking time accordingly.

4. Can I use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?
You can, but brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor. Use light brown sugar for the closest result.

5. How do I prevent apples from sinking?
Toss chopped apples lightly in a teaspoon of flour before folding into the batter to help them stay suspended.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep Ingredients	15 min
Mix Batter	5 min
Assemble Cake	5 min
Bake	45 min
Cool & Serve	10 min
Total	1 hr

Serving Suggestions

• Cut into generous squares for dessert or smaller squares for brunch.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream or honey butter for extra indulgence.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or chai for a comforting snack.

Recipe Variations

1. Apple Walnut Cake: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts to the batter or topping.
2. Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked cake.
3. Spiced Apple Cake: Add 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves to the batter.
4. Mini Apple Cake Muffins: Bake in muffin tins for 20–25 minutes at 325°F.

Ingredient Spotlight

Honeycrisp Apples

• Selection: Choose firm apples without bruises.
• Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Tips: Chop right before baking to maintain crispness.

Brown Sugar

• Selection: Use light or dark brown sugar depending on flavor preference.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container to prevent hardening.
• Tips: Soft brown sugar ensures a moist cake.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light.
• Check early: Oven temperatures vary; test doneness with a toothpick.
• Layering topping: Press gently with a fork to prevent clumps and encourage even caramelization.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room temperature: Covered, up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Airtight container, up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm gently in the oven.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280
Protein	2 g
Carbohydrates	44 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	28 g
Vegetarian	Yes
Nut-free	Yes (optional add-ins)
Dairy-free	Possible with substitutions

Expanded Conclusion

This Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is the ultimate home-baked comfort food. It’s simple to make, wonderfully fragrant, and delivers a perfect balance of soft, fluffy cake and a crisp, sweet topping. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a brunch, or just to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this recipe is sure to impress.

Take the time to bake it, savor the aroma, and share it with those you love. Once you taste the soft apples tucked into each bite and the crunch of the cinnamon sugar topping, you’ll understand why this cake has become a beloved favorite. Try it, customize it, and make it your own—this apple cake is a treat that’s as joyful to bake as it is to eat.

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