There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through the house. It’s the kind of smell that instantly evokes memories of cozy autumn afternoons, family gatherings, and holidays spent baking together. This Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake is one of those timeless recipes that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a simple afternoon treat with a cup of tea or a dessert to impress guests, this cake never fails to deliver.
I first encountered this recipe in my grandmother’s kitchen. She had a knack for turning simple ingredients into mouthwatering delights, and her apple cake was no exception. The cake was always perfectly moist, with tender chunks of apple and the irresistible flavor of cinnamon. Over the years, I’ve made this cake countless times, tweaking it here and there to make it even easier and more delicious. Now, it’s a staple in my own kitchen, and I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
2 eggs
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups chopped and peeled apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring the oven is fully preheated is essential for even baking.
Grease the Pan:
Spray a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray. This helps prevent the cake from sticking and makes for easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Make the Batter
Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of dark brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Eggs:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the mixture’s smooth and creamy texture.
Stir in the Vanilla Extract:
Add 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter and mix until combined. Vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cake.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Fold in the Apples and Walnuts:
Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of chopped and peeled apples and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. The apples should be evenly distributed throughout the batter, providing moisture and flavor, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Transfer to the Pan:
Spoon the batter into the prepared 9-inch round cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake:
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Baking times can vary slightly based on your oven, so start checking at the 40-minute mark.
Cool the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time helps the cake set and makes it easier to slice.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Slice and Serve:
Once the cake has cooled slightly, cut it into slices. For an extra special touch, serve the warm cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of the warm cake and cold ice cream is simply divine.
Variations and Substitutions
Nut-Free Version:
If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free cake, simply omit the walnuts. You can replace them with raisins or dried cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
Gluten-Free Option:
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to help the cake maintain its structure.
Spice it Up:
For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients. These warm spices complement the cinnamon and apples beautifully.
Healthy Swaps:
For a slightly healthier version, you can replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This not only reduces the fat content but also adds even more apple flavor to the cake.
Conclusion
This Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful and versatile recipe that brings a taste of home to any table. The combination of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts creates a comforting and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The recipe’s simplicity makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, and the various substitutions and additions allow for personal customization. Whether served as an afternoon snack, a dessert for guests, or a cozy treat on a chilly day, this cake is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of a homemade cinnamon apple cake. It’s a recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine.