This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert filled with tender apples and warm cinnamon spice. Topped with a brown sugar cinnamon mixture and a sweet glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether as a tea-time treat, an indulgent breakfast, or a delightful dessert.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 5 small apples, peeled and diced (approx. 500 g)
- 3 tsp cinnamon
- 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups (200 g) icing sugar
- 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (70 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (70 ml) milk
- 2 eggs
- 6 tbsp sunflower oil (or 120 g melted butter)
- 2 tsp vanilla sugar
- 4 tsp baking powder
For the Brown Sugar Mixture:
- 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar
- 3 tsp cinnamon
- 3 tbsp sunflower oil
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup (70 ml) milk
- 1 1/2 cups (200 g) icing sugar
Directions
Prepare the Apples
- Peel and dice the apples.
- Toss them with 3 tsp cinnamon and 20 g granulated sugar. Set aside.
Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, icing sugar, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla sugar, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly.
- Add sunflower oil (or melted butter) and mix until smooth.
Combine Ingredients
- Fold the prepared apple mixture into the batter.
- Pour the batter into a 9” x 13” (23 cm x 33 cm) pan lined with parchment paper.
Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and sunflower oil.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the cake batter.
Bake the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Bake the cake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Make the Glaze
- In a bowl, whisk together milk and icing sugar until smooth.
- Pour the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the cake slightly.
Serve
- Slice the cake into squares or rectangles and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top for added crunch.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a luxurious treat.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a tender cake.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaning.
- Let the glaze sit for a few minutes before serving to fully set.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Fiber: Apples add dietary fiber for improved digestion.
- Lower Fat Option: Using sunflower oil keeps the cake moist without heavy fats.
- Natural Sweetness: Apples provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for excess sugar.
- Spices for Health: Cinnamon is known for its antioxidant properties.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat products.
- Not Gluten-Free: Made with all-purpose flour, but can be adapted with gluten-free flour.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 34 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Warm slices before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Moist and Flavorful: Packed with juicy apples and a cinnamon kick.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, tea time, or a cozy dessert.
- Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or other spices to suit your taste.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is the perfect blend of moist, tender cake and a warm, comforting flavor profile. The combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and a glossy glaze makes it irresistible for dessert or a mid-day treat. Make this delightful recipe today and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of oil?
- Yes, melted coconut oil or canola oil works well.
- Can I use gluten-free flour?
- Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- What apples are best for this recipe?
- Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are excellent choices.
- Can I skip the glaze?
- Yes, the cake is delicious even without the glaze.
- How do I prevent the apples from sinking?
- Toss the apples in a little flour before folding them into the batter.
- Can I add nuts or raisins?
- Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or raisins are great additions.
- How long does the cake stay fresh?
- It stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Yes, bake the cake a day in advance and glaze it before serving.
- What can I serve with this cake?
- Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce.
- Can I use a bundt pan instead of a rectangular pan?
- Yes, adjust the baking time as needed for the different shape.