As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with a crispness that signals autumn, I find myself reaching for cozy baking recipes that warm the heart and home. This Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, perfectly blending tender apple slices with a sweet cinnamon sugar crust. Not only is it a breeze to whip up, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings, but it also caters to a variety of diets with gluten-free options available. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, this cake offers a comforting taste of fall that’s hard to resist. Curious about how to create this delightful slice of autumn? Let’s dive in!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, baking this cake is a breeze, even for novice cooks.
Tender Apples: The Honeycrisp apples lend just the right amount of sweetness and moisture, making each bite a flavor explosion.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite apples or gluten-free flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, this cake impresses friends and family alike with its warm, inviting flavor profile—great for cozy evenings!
Time-Saving: In about an hour, you can whip up this delightful dessert, which means more time for enjoying a cup of coffee or tea alongside it.
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel—this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is destined to become a cherished recipe in your home.
Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Apple Cider – Adds depth of flavor; reduces to concentrate sweetness.
- Honeycrisp Apples (or Granny Smith, Fuji, or Braeburn) – Provide moisture and sweetness; slice thinly for even baking.
- Coconut Oil – Contributes moisture and a subtle flavor; can be substituted with melted butter or neutral oil.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor profile.
- Egg – Binds ingredients and adds structure.
- Apple Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be replaced with additional applesauce if needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of the cake; can be substituted with gluten-free baking flour.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cake rise; essential for texture.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Apple Pie Spice (or Pumpkin Pie Spice) – Infuses warm autumn flavors; can be replaced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
For the Topping
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the topping; forms a crispy crust when baked.
- Ground Cinnamon – Provides a warm spice note that enhances the apple flavor.
- Salted Butter – Adds richness to the cinnamon sugar topping.
This delightful Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is sure to become a favorite in your autumn baking repertoire!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven warms up, line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring a smooth release for your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake. Setting the foundation now will guarantee that your cake bakes evenly later on.
Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, pour in your apple cider and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reduces down to approximately ½ cup. This process intensifies the apple flavor, enriching your cake. Stir occasionally and watch for bubbles to signal readiness.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the reduced apple cider, ½ cup of melted coconut oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, one egg, and ½ cup of honey or maple syrup along with ½ cup of apple butter. Blend these ingredients until smooth and glossy, ensuring every drop of moisture is incorporated—the key to a moist Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of apple pie spice. Once fully blended, gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until you see no flour streaks—be careful not to overmix to maintain the cake’s fluffy texture.
Step 5: Add the Apples
Delicately fold in 2-3 medium thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples into the batter. Ensure the apple slices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, which will create juicy pockets of flavor in your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake. The cake batter should be thick yet pourable, embracing the apple slices with love.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and ¼ cup of cold, diced salted butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until you achieve a crumbly texture. This will form the delicious cinnamon sugar topping that adds a delightful crunch to your cake.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over the batter, allowing it to create a crispy crust as it bakes. Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the edges slightly pull away and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Once slightly cooled, slice the cake into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of honey butter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing the comforting flavors of autumn in every bite!
Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own, creating delightful twists that dance on your palate!
- Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make this cake accessible for everyone.
- Spice it Up: Introduce a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile that complements the apples perfectly.
- Extra Moisture: For richer flavor, swap apple butter with additional pureed apple or homemade applesauce.
- Sweetness Alteration: Adjust the sugar by using honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweet flavor that still delights the taste buds.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful texture and crunch.
For a completely different experience, consider turning this cake into bite-sized delights by making Cinnamon Sugar Apple Muffins. Bake them in muffin tins for quick, individual servings that are fun for any occasion!
Experimenting with these variations offers the freedom to make this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake match your taste and mood. Whether you make small substitutions or transform it entirely, this recipe remains a cozy delight at any gathering. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake ahead of time is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings! You can mix the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can slice the apples and toss them in a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning—this can be done up to 3 days in advance. When you're ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping, and pop it in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy a warm, freshly baked cake that’s just as delicious, while saving precious time!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake moist while preserving its delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your cake again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Room Temperature: Alternatively, store at room temperature for up to 2 days, but ensure it’s covered to maintain freshness.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake
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Apple Slicing: Ensure your apple slices are thin: Thick slices can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for a consistent thickness for even baking.
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Mixing Method: Avoid overmixing the batter: Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy crumb in your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake.
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Cooling Time: Don’t skip the cooling step: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes to prevent falling apart when slicing.
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Taste Variations: Experiment with spices: Feel free to substitute apple pie spice with nutmeg or allspice for a personal twist on flavor.
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Sugar Crust: Use cold butter for topping: This helps create a crispy crust; if the butter is too warm, it may blend into the batter instead of forming a crumble.
What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake
This delightful dessert is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy meal, inviting warmth and comfort to every gathering.
- Honey Butter: A generous dollop of honey butter adds a sweet, creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the cake's flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melting atop warm slices creates a heavenly contrast, enhancing each delicious bite.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cake elevates it to new heights, adding a decadent touch that's hard to resist.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea complement the warm cinnamon notes in the cake, making it a perfect pairing for an afternoon treat.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream gives a luscious finish that balances the cake's sweetness while adding a delightful texture.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens the plate, balancing the cake's richness while adding vibrant colors.
- Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee enhances the flavors and creates an inviting atmosphere for leisurely chats.
- Nutty Granola: For a textural contrast, sprinkle some crunchy granola over a slice to add a delightful crunch that complements its moistness.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Just a hint of maple syrup can introduce an additional layer of sweetness that harmonizes with the cake’s spices.
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for this cake?
Absolutely! Honeycrisp apples are my favorite for their sweetness and moisture, but you can also use Granny Smith, Fuji, or Braeburn for a slightly tart flavor. Just be sure to slice them thinly for even baking!
How should I store leftovers of my Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake?
After enjoying the first slice, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just be sure they are well-wrapped to retain moisture!
Can I freeze the Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will keep your cake delicious for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my cake turns out too dense?
If your cake ends up dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Be gentle when folding in dry ingredients and avoid stirring too much. Another tip is to ensure your baking soda is fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect rose and texture.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Very! To make your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake gluten-free, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free baking blend. Simply measure the same amount as listed in the recipe; it should work beautifully without compromising flavor or texture.
Irresistibly Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe to Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a gentle boil and reduce to approximately ½ cup.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the reduced apple cider, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, egg, honey or maple syrup, and apple butter.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and apple pie spice, then gently fold into the wet ingredients.
- Delicately fold in the sliced Honeycrisp apples into the batter.
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced salted butter until crumbly.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over it.
- Bake for about 30-40 minutes until the edges slightly pull away and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares.
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