Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe – Easy Kitchen Guide

As you embark on baking this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake, consider what delightful companions might grace your table alongside it.

 I’ve found that a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream works wonders for enhancing the flavor. Both add a creamy texture that complements the cake’s warmth. If you’re in the mood for something unique, try pairing it with a mild cheddar cheese. The savory notes of cheese harmonize beautifully with the sweet spices.

Coffee is another excellent accompaniment. Imagine enjoying a slice of warm cake with a steaming cup of coffee. The rich flavor of the coffee highlights the sweetness of the apples and the warmth of the cinnamon, making for a comforting treat at any time of day.

The smell of freshly baked apple cake wafting through the kitchen is nothing short of magical. Let me tell you, there’s something special about a Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake. 

This gem combines tender chunks of apple with a light, fluffy cake base, all crowned with a sweet cinnamon sugar topping. It has become a staple in my home, especially during autumn, when apples are at their peak. 

Gather ’round! I can’t wait to share the details of this recipe that’s stood the test of time and delighted friends and family alike.

What is Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake?

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is a dessert that celebrates the glorious apple in every bite. It’s a cake that showcases the warmth of cinnamon and the rich sweetness of brown sugar. This recipe produces a cake that’s moist but not too dense, with delightful bits of apple that create bursts of flavor.

 When you slice into this cake, you’re met with a beautiful golden interior that hints at the cozy flavors waiting inside.

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What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is a delightful experience. It starts with the sweetness of freshly diced apples, which provides natural sugars and moisture. Adding on layers, cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and depth, while the brown sugar adds a rich caramel-like flavor. 

This combination creates a balance of sweetness and spice that evokes memories of autumn gatherings. The topping, a generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, provides the final touch – a slight crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake.

What Makes This Recipe Different from Others?

This is not just any ordinary Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake. Unlike many versions you might encounter, this recipe features Honeycrisp apples, known for their crisp texture and balanced sweetness.

 Additionally, the use of buttermilk makes the cake exceptionally light and fluffy. Many recipes can turn out dry, but the buttermilk keeps the moisture locked in, ensuring each bite is tender. Also unique is the combination of spices that elevates the flavor far beyond the typical apple cake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this masterpiece, you’ll need the following:

• Apple Cake:
  
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
    
  • 2 1/2 cups diced Honeycrisp apples
    
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    
  • 1 large egg
    
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk plus 1 tablespoon white vinegar)
    
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    
  • 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
    
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
  
  • 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
    
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial. If your oven isn’t hot enough, your cake won’t rise as it should.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of vegetable oil or use non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your cake releases easily once it’s baked.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and half of the cinnamon sugar. This mixture will bring uniformity to your final batter.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and egg. Whisk until fully blended. The oil helps keep the cake moist, and the buttermilk offers a tender crumb.

Step 5: Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry flour mixture. Stir gently to combine, making sure not to overmix. This is key to keeping it light and fluffy.

Step 6: Add the Apples

Once your batter is just combined, gently fold in the diced Honeycrisp apples. This step ensures that the apples are evenly distributed without breaking them down.

Step 7: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring a smooth top.

Step 8: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the remaining granulated sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle this mixture over the top of your cake batter. It will create a delightful crunchy cinnamon sugar layer as it bakes.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream.

Tips on Making Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe

• Choose Fresh Apples: This cake shines with the right apples. Honeycrisp works wonderfully, but you can also use Granny Smith for a tart contrast.
  
• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, the milk-vinegar mixture is a good substitute. It offers the same tenderizing effect.
  
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and airy.
  
• Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing. This helps the flavors meld together and improves the overall texture.
  
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  

Nutrition Information

One slice (1/12 of the cake) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
  
• Total Fat: 8g
  
• Saturated Fat: 1g
  
• Cholesterol: 20mg
  
• Sodium: 150mg
  
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
  
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
  
• Sugars: 18g
  
• Protein: 3g
  

This cake offers a delightful balance of sweetness, ideal for an afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.

How Can I Store This Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake?

To keep your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake fresh:

• Room Temperature: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days.
  
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate. It will last up to a week, covered to keep moisture in.
  
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic, then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it at room temperature automatically.
  

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Sometimes, you may find yourself missing a few ingredients. Here are some substitutes:

• Vegetable Oil: You can use coconut oil or canola oil instead. Both options work well in maintaining moisture without altering the flavor significantly.
  
• Buttermilk: If you’re out of buttermilk, combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly, similar to buttermilk.
  
• All-Purpose Flour: For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Adjust the baking time slightly as it may differ.
  
• Brown Sugar: If you find yourself without light brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses. This will mimic that rich, caramel flavor.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Baking a Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake brings warmth, nostalgia, and an unforgettable aroma to your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and creates memories. This cake is not just about the ingredients or the recipe; it’s about the joy it brings when shared with family and friends. 

So, whether you decide to make this for a gathering or just to savor a quiet moment, know that you’re partaking in a classic that has delighted many. Get ready to enjoy every crumb of this delightful treat!

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