Description
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a moist, flavorful, and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. Bursting with the warm spices of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of apples, this cake is easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, especially during the cozy autumn months.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the batter)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the apple mixture)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisking ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps with the cake’s texture and rise. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which is crucial for a tender cake. It usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract. The eggs add moisture and richness, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a less tender crumb.
Step 6: Prepare Apple Mixture: In a small bowl, toss the chopped apples with brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This coats the apples and adds extra flavor and sweetness.
Step 7: Assemble Cake: Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan. Top with half of the apple mixture. Spread the remaining batter over the apples, and then top with the remaining apple mixture. This layering ensures that the apples are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
Step 8: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Start checking for doneness around 45 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
Step 9: Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature. Cooling it slightly in the pan helps the cake to set and prevents it from breaking when you transfer it.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is incredibly easy to make and requires simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall. The sour cream adds moisture, resulting in a tender and delicious cake that everyone will enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Enjoy with a warm beverage such as coffee, tea, or hot cider.
Tips:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a tough cake.
- To prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples in a moist and tender cake. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want a delicious dessert to enjoy with your family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful aroma and the satisfying taste of this homemade goodness!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of apple?
A: Yes, you can use different types of apples. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji apples work well in this recipe. Each will impart a slightly different flavor and texture to the cake.
Q2: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum for better texture.
Q3: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Adding nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and flavor to the cake. Mix about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts into the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.
Q4: How do I store this cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Q5: Can I make this cake in a different pan?
A: Yes, you can bake this cake in a 9×13 inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time, so start checking for doneness around 35-40 minutes.
