Apple and Cinnamon Cake Recipe
This delightful Apple and Cinnamon Cake combines sweet apples, warm spices, and a tender, buttery cake. Perfect for cozy afternoons or family gatherings, it’s a treat that balances taste with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
Cake Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 cups)
Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to achieve a smooth batter.
Step 6: Fold in the Apples
- Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the ¼ cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the batter.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 9-12 slices
- Calories: Approximately 290 kcal per slice
This Apple and Cinnamon Cake is perfect for dessert or a cozy snack with tea or coffee. Enjoy the balance of sweet apples and warming spices!
FAQs
1. Can I use different apples?
Yes, any apple variety works, but tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance with the cake’s sweetness.
2. Can I substitute sour cream?
Greek yogurt or buttermilk can replace sour cream if needed, maintaining the cake’s moist texture.
3. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day before. Wrap it well to keep it moist, and add the icing before serving if desired.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
5. Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.