Name: Cinnamon Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: PT-488035H16M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 45 g granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 apples, peeled and diced; 150 g light brown sugar; 2 tablespoons cinnamon; 120 g unsalted butter, melted; 360 g plain flour; 200 g caster sugar; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 300 ml whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, room temperature; 110 g unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly; 200 g icing sugar; 40 ml whole milk

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Short description

This cinnamon apple cake is soft, moist, and layered with spiced apples, a buttery cinnamon swirl, and a sweet glaze. Perfectly cozy and comforting, it’s ideal for fall baking or any time you crave a warm, spiced dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines tender apples with rich cinnamon flavor throughout the cake.
A gooey cinnamon swirl adds extra sweetness and depth.
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
Bakes into a beautiful cake that’s great for sharing.
Finished with a light glaze for the perfect touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apples

45 g granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 apples, peeled and diced

For the cinnamon swirl

150 g light brown sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon
120 g unsalted butter, melted

For the cake

360 g plain flour
200 g caster sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
300 ml whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, lightly beaten, room temperature
110 g unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

For the glaze

200 g icing sugar
40 ml whole milk

Directions

Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line an 8×10-inch baking tray with non-stick baking paper.
Prepare the apples: Peel and dice apples. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar and cinnamon, then toss apples to coat. Set aside.
Make the cinnamon swirl: Combine light brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, caster sugar, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, vanilla extract, eggs, and melted butter. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Assemble the cake: Pour half the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread evenly. Add half of the cinnamon swirl mixture and half of the apples on top. Repeat with the remaining batter, swirl, and apples. Use a knife to gently swirl the top layer for a marbled effect.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the glaze: Whisk icing sugar with milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes.
Baking time: 45–50 minutes.
Cooling and glazing time: 15 minutes.
Total time: 1 hour 20–25 minutes.

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Substitute pears for apples for a twist.
Use a mix of apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for sweet-tart balance.
Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon swirl for extra warmth.
Bake in a bundt pan instead of a tray for a different presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave slices for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 160°C oven for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

1. What type of apples work best for this cake?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide great flavor.

2. Can I make this cake without the glaze?

Yes, the cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds extra sweetness and moisture.

3. Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute melted butter with vegetable oil or sunflower oil, though butter adds more flavor.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely, bake the cake a day ahead and glaze just before serving.

5. Can I use self-raising flour instead of plain flour?

Yes, but omit the baking powder since self-raising flour already contains leavening.

6. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can cut back slightly on the sugar in the cake or swirl, but it may affect sweetness and texture.

7. Why is my cake dense?

Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Stir only until the ingredients are just combined.

8. Can I bake this cake in a round pan?

Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan or a large round cake tin. Adjust baking time as needed.

9. How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a skewer into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

10. Can I serve this cake warm?

Yes, it’s delicious warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Cinnamon apple cake is a moist, spiced treat that’s perfect for autumn or anytime you want a cozy dessert. With layers of tender apples, a buttery cinnamon swirl, and a sweet glaze, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or the next day with coffee, this cake is sure to become a favorite.