This Apple Cinnamon Cake is a simple yet delicious treat that combines fluffy cake with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples. The soft, tender cake base pairs beautifully with caramelized apples, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or as a sweet dessert for any occasion, this cake will become a family favorite in no time.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 75 grams (1/3 cup) sugar
- 8 grams (1 tbsp) vanilla sugar
- 150 grams (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10 grams (2 tsp) baking powder
- 100 grams (1/2 cup) melted butter
For the Apples:
- 3 medium apples, peeled and cut into 3 cm pieces
- 3 tablespoons (45 grams) sugar (for sprinkling)
- Ground cinnamon (to taste)
Directions
Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs at room temperature until they become foamy.
- Gradually add sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, mixing gently to combine.
- Add melted butter and stir until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Prepare the Apples
- Peel and cut the apples into 3 cm pieces. Set aside.
Assemble the Cake
- Line a 19 cm (7.5-inch) round baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Pour the prepared batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the apple pieces evenly on top of the batter.
- Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon generously over the apples.
Bake the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- After baking, run a knife around the edge of the cake to detach it from the pan. Turn the cake out onto a plate.
Create the Golden Crust
- Place the cake back onto the baking pan. Switch the oven to the grill (broil) function.
- Grill the cake for 3 minutes or until a golden crust forms on top.
Serve
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the cake with a hot beverage, such as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream for a rich, creamy finish.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate ganache for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy the cake with fresh fruit on the side, such as berries or a citrus salad, for a balanced meal.
Cooking Tips
- Apple Variety: Choose firm apples such as Granny Smith, Gala, or Fuji, as they hold their shape well during baking and don’t turn mushy.
- Cinnamon Level: Adjust the amount of cinnamon to your preference. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Butter Substitute: If you want to make the cake a bit lighter, you can replace the melted butter with vegetable oil.
- Grill Function: Be careful when using the grill (broil) function. It can quickly brown the cake, so watch closely to prevent burning.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before starting the recipe for the best texture in the batter.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin C. They support healthy digestion and immune function.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids, which are important for muscle repair and overall health.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the cake, although it can be substituted with plant-based oils or butter for a dairy-free option.
- Cinnamon: A great source of antioxidants, cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based butter or oil
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
Calories: 200
Protein: 3 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fat: 9 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 18 grams
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Cinnamon Cake is the perfect balance of soft, fluffy cake with sweet, caramelized apples and a touch of warming cinnamon. It’s simple to prepare with easy-to-find ingredients, and it’s versatile enough to enjoy at any time of the day. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack, a holiday dessert, or a special treat for family and friends, this cake will impress everyone with its comforting flavor and texture. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be stored for several days, making it an ideal make-ahead treat.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Cake is a wonderful dessert that blends the warmth of cinnamon with the sweet tartness of apples. It’s an easy recipe to whip up and requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect go-to for when you need a delicious homemade treat. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it with a hot drink on your own, this cake will quickly become a beloved recipe. The golden crust, soft texture, and fragrant apples make it a dessert you’ll come back to again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
- Yes, you can substitute the apples with pears or peaches, but ensure the fruit is firm so it doesn’t turn mushy during baking.
- Can I make this cake without the grill function?
- Absolutely! The grill function helps create a golden crust, but the cake will still be delicious if baked normally.
- How can I make this cake dairy-free?
- Use a plant-based butter or oil instead of regular butter to make the cake dairy-free.
- Can I use a larger baking pan?
- Yes, but the cake may bake faster in a larger pan. Reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes, and check the doneness with a toothpick.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version of the cake.
- What kind of apples are best for this cake?
- Granny Smith, Gala, or Fuji apples are all great choices for this cake, as they hold their shape well during baking.
- Can I make this cake in advance?
- Yes, the cake stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- How can I make this cake more moist?
- Adding a little more butter or using a bit of applesauce in place of some butter will help make the cake more moist.
- Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar?
- Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup, but you may need to adjust the quantity and reduce other liquids in the recipe.
- Is this cake suitable for kids?
- Yes, this cake is kid-friendly! It’s not overly sweet and has a mild cinnamon flavor that children tend to enjoy.