There’s something incredibly comforting about a fresh, homemade dessert—especially one that combines warm spices, a touch of sweetness, and a satisfying crunch. This Apple Walnut Cake with Cinnamon and Caramel is a perfect example of such a dessert. The combination of soft, cinnamon-spiced apples, delicate cake, and a nutty crunch from the walnuts is an irresistible treat for any occasion, be it a family gathering, a special holiday celebration, or simply a cozy afternoon tea.
The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. It can be served as a light snack with a cup of coffee, or it can be dressed up for more formal occasions by adding a drizzle of jam, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a few extra roasted nuts for a crunchy topping. The apple layer adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake, while the walnuts contribute a hearty texture and earthy flavor that perfectly balances the soft, fluffy cake.
This recipe combines simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to time and time again because it’s easy to make and always delivers delicious results.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Apple Layer:
- 3 Apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 2 tablespoons of icing sugar
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- Grated walnuts (optional, for sprinkling over the apples)
For the Dough:
- 4 Eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 150 g (¾ cup) of sugar
- 150 g (1¼ cups) of 00 flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 14 g (1 tablespoon) of baking powder
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Jam or caramel (for serving, optional)
- Nuts (for garnish, optional)
Steps to Make the Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Layer
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, even slices. Place them in a mixing bowl.
- Season the Apples: Add the icing sugar and ground cinnamon to the apples, and mix well so the apples are evenly coated. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the apples and infuse them with a warm, comforting spice.
- Optional Walnut Addition: If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle some grated walnuts over the apple mixture. Set this aside while you prepare the dough.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease and flour a cake pan (about 9 inches in diameter) or line it with parchment paper.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until they become frothy and slightly pale in color.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add the sugar and vanilla extract to the eggs and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will help the cake rise and create a soft, airy texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the 00 flour and baking powder together. Gradually add this dry mixture to the egg mixture, folding gently until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cake dense.
- Prepare to Assemble: Gently fold in the apples and cinnamon mixture from Step 1. You want to distribute the apple slices evenly through the dough but still retain their structure.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the Dough into the Pan: Pour the prepared batter into your greased cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the apples should be tender.
- Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Serve the Cake
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cake is completely cooled, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch.
- Add Jam or Caramel: If desired, drizzle the cake with a bit of jam or caramel for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Garnish with Nuts: For an added crunch, sprinkle roasted walnuts or other nuts over the top of the cake.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the cake into wedges and serve it alongside your favorite beverage—perhaps a hot cup of tea or coffee. It also pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 18g
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
The Apple Walnut Cake with Cinnamon and Caramel embodies the essence of classic, homey desserts that never go out of style. Apples, cinnamon, and walnuts are ingredients that have stood the test of time in many traditional recipes. Their sweet, spiced, and nutty combination is universally loved, making this cake a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether served during the crisp days of autumn or enjoyed as a sweet treat for a family gathering, this cake brings the comfort of home baking with a sophisticated flavor profile.
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity—it relies on pantry staples that everyone has access to, but when combined, they create a dessert that feels both rustic and elegant. The addition of apples provides moisture and natural sweetness, while the walnuts bring texture and depth. The cinnamon ties everything together, evoking the comforting warmth that makes this cake so beloved.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of nut?
- Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just be sure to chop them finely for even distribution.
- Can I make this cake in advance?
- Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Is this cake gluten-free?
- This recipe contains flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Can I add other fruits?
- Yes, you can experiment with other fruits such as pears, peaches, or berries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar levels accordingly depending on the sweetness of the fruit.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.
Tips for the Perfect Cake
- Use firm apples: Choose apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Softer apples may become too mushy and break down.
- Add a hint of lemon: A few drops of lemon juice in the apple mixture can help enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- Test for doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to ensure the center is fully cooked. The cake should be golden brown, and the tester should come out clean.
- Customize the topping: Feel free to get creative with the toppings. A sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a few crushed cookies can take this cake to the next level.
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Cover it loosely with a kitchen towel or place it in an airtight container.
- Refrigeration: If you want the cake to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store them in a zip-lock bag or airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Conclusion
There’s something truly magical about the combination of apples, cinnamon, and walnuts in this cake. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, sweetness, and crunch, making it a dessert that will appeal to people of all ages. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a delicious homemade treat, this Apple Walnut Cake with Cinnamon and Caramel is sure to impress. The soft, fluffy cake paired with the spiced apples and the optional caramel or jam topping creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and memorable.
What makes this cake even more remarkable is its versatility. It’s just as perfect for a quick afternoon snack as it is for a more formal event. The balance of flavors and textures—sweet, tart, crunchy, and soft—makes each bite a little moment of joy. In the end, this cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition. It’s one of those timeless desserts that never fail to bring people together and create lasting memories. Enjoy it, share it with loved ones, and savor the flavors that make it so special!