Introduction
Apple and Cinnamon Cake is a cozy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon spice. Soft, moist, and aromatic, it’s perfect for fall baking but equally delightful year-round. Served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream, this cake brings together simplicity and indulgence in every slice.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Apples and cinnamon have long been paired in European and Middle Eastern baking traditions, symbolizing comfort and home cooking. In countries like Germany and Austria, apple cakes (Apfelkuchen) are family staples, often served with coffee or tea. Cinnamon, once a prized spice in global trade, elevated humble fruit-based desserts into celebratory treats. The apple-cinnamon pairing has since become iconic worldwide, associated with warmth, tradition, and hospitality.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 cups)
- 1/4 cup milk
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries for sweetness
- A light powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting
- A sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking for caramelization
Tips for Success
- Choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji to hold texture while baking.
- Keep ingredients at room temperature for even mixing.
- Toss apples lightly in a spoonful of flour before folding them in to prevent sinking.
- Don’t overmix—this ensures a light, moist cake.
- Allow cake to cool fully before slicing to set the crumb.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla.
- Mix in yogurt (or sour cream). Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
- Fold in diced apples (and nuts or raisins if using).
- Pour batter into prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or simply dusted with powdered sugar.
Description
This Apple and Cinnamon Cake is moist, tender, and fragrant, with soft bites of apple throughout and a gentle spice that fills the kitchen as it bakes. It’s rustic yet elegant—perfect for family gatherings, tea time, or as a cozy dessert on a chilly day.
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: ~240
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Sugars: 20 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Conclusion and Recommendation
Apple and Cinnamon Cake is the epitome of comfort baking—simple, heartwarming, and universally loved. It makes an excellent everyday cake, but it can also be dressed up for holidays with a glaze or frosting.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Apples bring natural sweetness and fiber, while cinnamon offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. By enjoying this cake in moderation, you indulge in a dessert that is both satisfying and wholesome. Pairing it with tea or coffee, you celebrate not only a treat but also a tradition of warmth and togetherness.