Discover the ultimate Cinnamon Apple Cake that combines the sweetness of fresh apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and a tender, moist crumb. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a simple treat with coffee or tea. Topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar layer and drizzled with a luscious sugar glaze, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Made with simple ingredients like fresh apples, Greek yogurt, and pantry staples, this homemade apple cake is packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re searching for a dessert that highlights seasonal flavors or an effortless yet impressive cake recipe, this Cinnamon Apple Cake is the answer!
Ingredients
Apple Cake
- 210 grams (1 1/2 cups) plain or all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 150 grams (3/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
- 1 cup (approximately 1 large) red apple, peeled and roughly chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) Greek yogurt
Cinnamon Topping
- 50 grams (1/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Sugar Glaze
- 30 grams (1/4 cup) icing sugar or powdered sugar, sifted
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Make the Apple Cake
- Prepare the oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) for a standard oven or 160°C (320°F) for a fan-forced oven. Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Stir briefly to combine. Add the chopped apple and toss to coat.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt until just combined.
- Combine wet and dry: Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and gently mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until combined. Do not overmix to avoid a dense cake.
- Pour into the pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Make the Cinnamon Topping
- Mix ingredients: Combine cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix until the mixture resembles wet, lumpy sand.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the cake batter.
Bake
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the glaze.
Make the Sugar Glaze
- Mix glaze: In a small bowl, combine icing sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk. Stir until smooth. Add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Decorate: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Let it set before slicing and serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Seasonal flavors: The perfect blend of apple and cinnamon for fall vibes.
- Moist texture: Greek yogurt and apples make the cake incredibly tender.
- Easy to make: Simple steps and everyday ingredients make this recipe beginner-friendly.
Tips
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and yogurt are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Use fresh apples: Opt for crisp, sweet apples like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix until just combined.
Variations and Substitutions
- Nutty twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Healthier option: Swap sugar with coconut sugar and use whole wheat flour.
- Spice it up: Add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom for more warmth.
FAQs
Can I use another type of yogurt?
Yes, plain or vanilla yogurt works as a substitute for Greek yogurt.
How should I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Enjoy with a warm mug of coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider.
Bring the taste of fall to your table with this easy Cinnamon Apple Cake! It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations.
Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
8
servings30
minutes35
minutesIngredients
Apple Cake
210 grams (1 1/2 cups) plain or all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
150 grams (3/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
1 cup (approximately 1 large) red apple, peeled and roughly chopped
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
120 ml (1/2 cup) Greek yogurt
Cinnamon Topping
50 grams (1/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Sugar Glaze
30 grams (1/4 cup) icing sugar or powdered sugar, sifted
1–2 tablespoons milk
Directions
- Make the Apple Cake
- Prepare the oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) for a standard oven or 160°C (320°F) for a fan-forced oven. Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Stir briefly to combine. Add the chopped apple and toss to coat.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt until just combined.
- Combine wet and dry: Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and gently mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until combined. Do not overmix to avoid a dense cake.
- Pour into the pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Make the Cinnamon Topping
- Mix ingredients: Combine cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix until the mixture resembles wet, lumpy sand.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the cake batter.
- Bake
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the glaze.
- Make the Sugar Glaze
- Mix glaze: In a small bowl, combine icing sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk. Stir until smooth. Add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Decorate: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Let it set before slicing and serving.
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