Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake: A Quick & Delicious Treat 🍎

When it comes to desserts that warm the heart and fill the kitchen with a comforting aroma, few can compete with the charm of a freshly baked Cinnamon Apple Cake. With tender chunks of tart apples and the warm spice of cinnamon, this easy-to-make cake is the perfect balance of sweet and cozy — a true crowd-pleaser for all seasons, especially fall.

The best part? This recipe requires no fancy equipment, minimal prep, and simple pantry staples. Whether you’re a novice baker or someone looking for a quick weekday dessert, this cake is both forgiving and rewarding. You can have it ready in under an hour from start to finish, and it’s as good with your morning coffee as it is topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

🍏 Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Cake

• One-Bowl Wonder – Mix it all up in one bowl for easy cleanup.
• Moist and Flavorful – Thanks to vegetable oil and juicy apples.
• Perfect Texture – Soft, tender crumb with just the right amount of chew.
• Versatile – Serve it as a snack, breakfast treat, or dessert.
• Beginner-Friendly – Foolproof and doesn’t require special skills or tools.

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering apple cake:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of your cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness.
• 2 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – Gives the cake its signature warm flavor.
• ½ tsp salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist without overpowering the flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Provide structure and richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste.

Apples:

• 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced – Their tartness balances the sweetness and adds texture.

✅ Tip: You can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples if you prefer something sweeter and less tart.

👩‍🍳 Method

Let’s break it down step-by-step to make sure your cake turns out just right.

🔹 Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

🔹 Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt

Make sure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients.

🔹 Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the following to your bowl:

• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Stir everything together using a wooden spoon or a hand mixer until well combined. The batter will be thick — that’s normal.

🔹 Step 4: Fold in the Apples

Peel and dice your 2 Granny Smith apples into small chunks (about ½-inch pieces), then gently fold them into the batter.

🧁 The apples will release moisture while baking, helping to keep the cake extra moist and flavorful.

🔹 Step 5: Pour into the Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners and smooth the top.

🔹 Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until:

• The top is golden brown
• A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

🔹 Step 7: Serve

Enjoy the cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or served with:

• A dusting of powdered sugar
• A dollop of whipped cream
• A drizzle of caramel sauce
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream

👩‍🍳 Optional Add-Ins

Want to put your own spin on the cake? Try these:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans – Adds crunch.
• ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries – Adds sweetness and texture.
• A pinch of nutmeg – Pairs beautifully with cinnamon and apple.

🍽️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature: Store tightly covered for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Stays fresh for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 30 seconds to serve warm.

🧾 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, 9 servings total)

Estimated values only:

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

Actual nutrition will vary depending on apple type, mix-ins, and serving size.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different kind of apple?

Yes! Granny Smith apples are great because they hold their shape and add tartness, but other good options include Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn for a sweeter flavor.

Q2: Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind the cake will be slightly denser and may require a splash of milk to loosen the batter.

Q3: Can I turn this into muffins?

Absolutely. Pour the batter into greased or lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Q4: Can I make this cake vegan?

Yes! Substitute:

• Eggs → 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water)
• Use a plant-based oil
• Ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly

The cake will still be moist and flavorful.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat it?

For a warm slice, microwave it for 15–20 seconds. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then microwave.

Q6: How can I make it more indulgent?

Try adding a cream cheese glaze or a caramel drizzle on top once cooled. You can also serve it à la mode (with ice cream) for a decadent dessert.

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🧁 Final Thoughts

This Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly delightful. Moist, warmly spiced, and studded with sweet-tart apples, it’s the kind of no-fuss recipe that becomes a go-to for busy weekdays, family gatherings, and last-minute visitors.

Plus, with flexible add-ins and a forgiving batter, it’s a great recipe to make your own. So the next time you have a few apples sitting around, don’t overthink it — bake this cake and enjoy the delicious results.