Creamy, cinnamon-scented, and full of juicy apple bites—this Cinnamon Apple Cake is the kind of home-baked comfort that makes kitchens smell like fall and hearts feel a little warmer. Perfect for breakfast with coffee, as a dessert after dinner, or for sharing at potlucks, this cake balances soft crumb and tender apple pieces with the cozy warmth of cinnamon. Fun fact: apples were one of the earliest fruits domesticated for baking in Europe, so you could say this cake has decades of delicious history behind it.

If you love simple, approachable baking that doesn’t require fancy equipment or mysterious ingredients, this recipe is for you. It’s quick to prepare, family-friendly, and forgiving for beginner bakers. For another spin on apple desserts, check out a similar cinnamon apple cake version that highlights a caramelized topping. Try this one today—you’ll be surprised how fast a homemade cake can become everyone’s favorite.

What is Cinnamon Apple Cake?

What exactly is a Cinnamon Apple Cake? Think of a cozy hug in dessert form: a soft, cinnamon-spiced cake studded with tender apple chunks that stay juicy as you bake. Why the name? Because it’s exactly what it sounds like—cake with cinnamon and apples—simple, memorable, and slightly boastful. Ever wonder why it tastes so comforting? Maybe because it reminds us of grandma’s kitchen, or perhaps because “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Who can argue with a cake that practically does the job for you?

Legend (or family lore) claims one version of this cake was baked to win over a neighbor’s affection—so if you’re baking for someone special, this might just be your secret weapon. Give it a try and see if it becomes your signature dessert.

Why You’ll Love This:

• Cozy cinnamon flavor: The star of this cake is warm ground cinnamon, which infuses the batter and complements the tart-sweet apples for a classic flavor combination that smells incredible while baking.
• Economical and homey: Making this cake at home uses everyday pantry ingredients and inexpensive apples, making it a great budget-friendly treat compared to store-bought pastries or coffee-shop cakes.
• Texture and toppings: Tender cake, bursts of apple, and crunchy walnuts add delightful contrast—serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat that elevates the whole experience.

If you enjoy recipes with simple prep and great payoff, this one pairs nicely with other cozy bakes on the blog like apple crisp or spiced loaf cakes—each brings its own texture and charm. Ready to make it? Let’s get baking.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is straightforward: mix a buttery, spiced batter, fold in chopped apples and walnuts, and bake until golden and set. The result is a moist cake with pockets of juicy apple and a tender crumb. Prep is quick—about 15 minutes—and bake time is around 40–45 minutes, so you’ll have a delicious homemade cake in under an hour.

Approximate time: Prep 15 minutes + Bake 40–45 minutes = Total about 55–60 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups chopped and peeled apples (about 2 medium apples)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray and lightly flour or line the bottom with parchment for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition so the batter stays smooth and emulsified.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to make sure the leavening and spices are evenly mixed.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula until just combined—do not overmix to keep the cake tender.
7. Fold in the chopped and peeled apples and the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed through the batter. The apples add moisture and texture, and the walnuts add a pleasant crunch.
8. Spoon the batter into the prepared 9-inch pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for even baking.
9. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.
10. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10–15 minutes to set before slicing. This helps the cake hold together.
11. Serve warm for best flavor, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

 

What to Serve With:

• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic contrast of hot and cold.
• A simple caramel sauce drizzled over slices for extra indulgence.
• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette if serving as part of a brunch spread to balance sweetness.
• Hot coffee, chai tea, or a spiced apple cider to complement the cinnamon notes.

Top Tips for Perfecting:

• Apple choice: Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to keep pieces from turning mushy; softer apples like McIntosh will break down more during baking.
• Even chopping: Cut apples into similar-sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
• Do not overmix: Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated to avoid a dense cake.
• Room-temperature butter and eggs: This helps the batter come together smoothly and traps air for a lighter crumb.
• Walnut swap: If you prefer, substitute pecans or omit nuts entirely for nut-free households.
• Check doneness: Ovens vary; start checking at 35 minutes and add time in small increments until a toothpick comes out clean.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Room temperature: Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days in a cake keeper or loosely wrapped.
• Refrigeration: Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature or warm gently before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven or microwave.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes or microwave a single slice for 20–30 seconds until just warm. Top with ice cream immediately for a delightful contrast.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour, like whole wheat?

Yes, you can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the cake will be denser and may benefit from an extra splash of milk or a slightly longer baking time.

What type of apples work best for this cake?

Firm, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape well and provide a nice balance to the cake’s sweetness.

Can I make this cake nut-free?

Absolutely. Simply omit the walnuts or replace them with toasted oats or seeds for texture if you need a nut-free option.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the cake is done. Also, the top should be golden and spring back slightly when touched.

Can I add spices or extras to the batter?

Yes. Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice for extra warmth. You can also fold in raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines simple pantry ingredients with the comforting flavor of cinnamon and apples—perfect for family breakfasts, casual desserts, or holiday baking. It’s forgiving for beginners, flexible to customize, and reliably delicious. If you want more inspiration or a slightly different take on cinnamon apple baking, explore The BEST Cinnamon Apple Cake – Sweetest Menu for another delightful version to try. Give this cake a go, share it with friends, and enjoy the warm, cozy smiles that follow.