Apple Cinnamon Cake with Lemon Zest is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that combines the sweetness of tender apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the refreshing zest of lemon. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea, a family dinner, or a casual get-together with friends. The comforting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist a slice. With a soft, moist crumb and the perfect balance of flavors, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. What makes it even better? The ingredients are simple, and it takes less than an hour to make from start to finish!

This cake has a timeless appeal, largely due to its reliance on familiar ingredients that are staples in many households. Apples, cinnamon, butter, and sugar are some of the most classic and beloved ingredients used in desserts around the world. When paired together, they create a perfect harmony of flavors that have stood the test of time. The addition of lemon zest adds a unique twist that elevates the traditional apple cinnamon cake, making it light and fragrant.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a moist, flavorful cake that’s bound to impress everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:

• 2 small apples (approximately 10 oz or 300g), peeled and cored
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp (45g) sugar
• 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cinnamon

For the Cake Batter:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup (56g) vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp (30g) plain yogurt
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp (6g) baking powder
• 2/3 cup (85g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp (1g) salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Start by peeling, coring, and chopping the apples into small chunks. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will cook and become soft, which is ideal for a smooth filling.
2. In a medium-sized skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped apples, sugar, and cinnamon to the pan. Stir gently to combine.
4. Let the apples cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they soften and the sugar has dissolved into a syrupy mixture. Once the apples are tender, remove the pan from the heat and set the apple filling aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer or 4-5 minutes by hand.
2. Add the lemon zest, vegetable oil, plain yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
5. Once the batter is smooth, you’re ready to assemble the cake.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
3. Spoon the apple filling over the batter, spreading it out evenly. Be sure to leave a little space around the edges for the batter to rise.
4. Carefully pour the remaining cake batter over the apples, covering them completely. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly.
5. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. After 10 minutes, turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Once the cake has cooled, slice it into wedges and serve. Optionally, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar for a finishing touch or drizzle a bit of honey for added sweetness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories (per serving): Approx. 350 kcal

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Apple Cinnamon Cake with Lemon Zest is a timeless dessert because it combines some of the most beloved ingredients that have been used in baking for centuries. Apples and cinnamon have long been associated with comfort food and warmth, evoking memories of cozy autumn days, family gatherings, and the joy of homemade treats. Adding lemon zest to the cake batter introduces a refreshing, citrusy twist that adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile.

This cake is versatile—serve it as a simple snack, a light dessert, or even for breakfast with a cup of coffee. It has a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a dessert that everyone will enjoy, no matter the season.

This cake is also an excellent way to use up apples that are nearing the end of their freshness. Plus, it’s relatively simple to make, requiring no special equipment or complex techniques, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 100mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
A: Yes! Pears, peaches, or even berries would work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the fruit you choose, as some fruits may release more moisture than others.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the plain yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt, and use plant-based butter or oil instead of the unsalted butter. Just ensure that the vanilla extract you use is also dairy-free.

Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Absolutely! This cake keeps well for up to 2 days at room temperature. If you want to store it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Cake

• Choose the Right Apples: For this recipe, it’s best to use apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala. These apples will create a satisfying texture in the filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until the ingredients are just incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Use Fresh Spices: Ground cinnamon is a key flavor in this cake, so using freshly ground cinnamon (or even grinding your own) will make a noticeable difference in the taste.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: This cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve its moisture.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. If you prefer your cake warm, simply microwave it for a few seconds before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze this cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw at room temperature.

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon Cake with Lemon Zest is the ultimate comfort dessert, offering a blend of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors that can be enjoyed by everyone. The tender apples and cinnamon filling, combined with the light and airy cake, create a dish that is as heartwarming as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. Easy to prepare, versatile, and delicious, it’s a recipe that will surely find its way into your collection of go-to desserts for years to come.