Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake

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There’s a reason why classic recipes never go out of style. This Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake brings everything you love about fall into one warmly spiced dessert. With its tender crumb and sweet chunks of apple in every bite, it’s the kind of cake that comforts you with its aroma alone.

Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or serving it up with a dollop of whipped cream after dinner, this cake is simple to make and satisfying in every way. It’s the perfect treat to bake when you’ve got extra apples and want to make something that feels like home.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake

This cake is everything a cozy dessert should be: moist, fluffy, and rich with cinnamon flavor. The diced apples bake into soft, juicy pockets throughout the cake, making each slice slightly different and completely delicious. It’s also a one-bowl batter, meaning fewer dishes and more time enjoying what you’ve baked. Plus, it keeps beautifully for a few days, and the flavor only gets better.

What Kind of Apples Work Best for Cinnamon Apple Cake?

You want an apple that holds its shape and offers a bit of tartness to balance the sweetness of the cake. Granny Smith is a dependable favorite for its tangy snap, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn also do well. A mix of two types can add depth to the flavor and texture.

Ingredients for the Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake

This cake comes together with pantry staples, but each ingredient plays an important role in delivering that cozy, spiced flavor and soft, moist texture.

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Vegetable oil
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Apples (peeled and diced)
• Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

The flour provides the base structure, while the baking soda lifts the cake for a tender crumb. Cinnamon is the star of the show, lending warm spice to every bite. Oil keeps the cake moist, and the sugar gives sweetness and helps create a golden crust. Eggs bind the ingredients, and vanilla deepens the flavor. The apples bring texture and juiciness, and the optional nuts add a lovely crunch.

How To Make the Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to evenly distribute the leavening and spice.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center and pour in the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until fully combined. The batter will be thick.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples (and Nuts)

Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts if using. The batter will loosen slightly as the moisture from the apples integrates.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it plain, or top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

How to Serve and Store Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake

This recipe yields about 12 generous slices, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a week of indulgent snacking. Serve it warm for ultimate comfort, especially if you top it with a scoop of ice cream. It also pairs beautifully with a morning coffee or chai latte.

To store, wrap the cake tightly or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices and reheat them when cravings strike.

What to Serve With Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake?

Whipped Cream

A cloud of homemade whipped cream balances the richness of the cake and highlights its light cinnamon flavor.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Cold, creamy vanilla ice cream melting into a warm slice creates a dreamy contrast.

Caramel Sauce

A drizzle of warm caramel adds another layer of indulgence.

Hot Apple Cider

Double down on apple flavor with a mug of warm cider on the side.

Cream Cheese Glaze

Whisk together some powdered sugar, cream cheese, and milk for a tangy topping.

Toasted Nuts

Sprinkle extra toasted walnuts or pecans over each slice for added crunch.

Chai Latte

The spiced tea drink enhances the cinnamon notes in the cake.

Greek Yogurt

For a lighter, tangy option, serve a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake, you’ll want to check out these equally irresistible bakes from Luna Meals:

• Try the Southern Hummingbird Cake for a fruity, nutty delight.
• Our Easy Banana Cream Pie brings a cool, creamy contrast to spiced cakes.
• Get nostalgic with Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts, simple and satisfying.
• Indulge your sweet tooth with the decadent Hot Fudge Brownie Bread.
• For a seasonal twist, don’t miss our Rhubarb Shortbread Bars.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how your apple cake turned out. Did you go with Granny Smiths or mix it up? Add any spices of your own? I love seeing your takes and tweaks.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy bakes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite bake or sip.

Conclusion

Baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be deeply satisfying. This Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake is the kind of no-fuss recipe that brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table. Keep it simple or dress it up, but definitely make it yours.

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