Name: Cinnamon Apple Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 45 g granulated sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 2 apples peeled & diced; 150 g light brown sugar; 2 tbsp cinnamon; 120 g unsalted butter (melted); 360 g plain flour; 200 g caster sugar; 4 tsp baking powder; 300 ml whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs lightly beaten, room temperature; 110 g unsalted butter (melted & cooled slightly); 200 g icing sugar; 40 ml whole milk

Introduction to Cinnamon Apple Cake

If you're in the mood for a deliciously comforting dessert, look no further than Cinnamon Apple Cake! This delightful treat merges the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a beautiful balance of flavors that makes every bite feel like a cozy hug. As the cake bakes, your kitchen will fill with an enticing aroma that’s sure to bring everyone to the table.

Why Cinnamon Apple Cake is the Perfect Homemade Dessert

Cinnamon Apple Cake is not just appealing because of its incredible taste; it also boasts a wonderfully moist texture that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. With a sweet and buttery cinnamon swirl along with juicy apple chunks throughout, this cake is a symphony of flavors and textures.

What’s more, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an instant classic, or enjoy it cold with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. This makes it the perfect dessert for any occasion. And the best part? It’s easy to make, so you can whip it up on a whim or for those special gatherings.

For tips on baking times or ingredient substitutions, feel free to check out this helpful guide. Let’s get started on this scrumptious journey of Cinnamon Apple Cake.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Cake

Creating a Cinnamon Apple Cake that bursts with flavor starts with gathering the right ingredients. Don’t worry—it’s all pretty straightforward!

Key ingredients for the cake

Plain flour: 360 g for a soft, luscious base.
Caster sugar: 200 g to sweeten the mix.
Baking powder: 4 teaspoon to ensure a fluffy texture.
Whole milk: 300 ml makes the cake moist.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for an aromatic touch.
Large eggs: 2, lightly beaten at room temperature.
Unsalted butter: 110 g, melted and slightly cooled for richness.

Components for the cinnamon swirl

Light brown sugar: 150 g adds a deep caramel flavor.
Cinnamon: 2 tablespoon packs a warm, spicy punch.
Unsalted butter: 120 g, melted, holds everything together beautifully.

Essential ingredients for the glaze

Icing sugar: 200 g for that perfect sweetness.
Whole milk: 40 ml, used to achieve a silky consistency.

With these ingredients, you are well on your way to baking a cake that is not only delightful to your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Want to explore more about baking essentials? Check out these baking tips for enhancing your skills!

Preparing Cinnamon Apple Cake

Creating a Cinnamon Apple Cake is truly a delightful experience, and with each step, you'll find joy in the process! Here’s how to make this delicious treat from start to finish.

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking tray

Before diving into the mixing bowl, it's essential to get your oven preheating. Set it to 180°C (or 160°C for fan ovens) to create that warm, inviting atmosphere that will bring your cake to life. Meanwhile, line an 8x10" baking tray with non-stick baking paper. This will help ensure that your cake comes out perfectly without any sticking – a real game-changer when it comes to ease of serving!

Prepare the apples with sugar and cinnamon

Now it’s time to focus on those juicy apples. Peel and dice your apples into small pieces, roughly bite-sized. In a small bowl, whisk together 45 g of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Once your mixture is ready, coat the diced apples in this sweet blend. This combination enhances the flavor and aroma of the apples, making sure every bite of your Cinnamon Apple Cake is bursting with deliciousness. Set these aside while you gather the rest of your ingredients.

Create the cinnamon swirl mixture

What’s a Cinnamon Apple Cake without the irresistible cinnamon swirl? In a small bowl, whisk together 150 g of light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of cinnamon, and 120 g of melted unsalted butter. Make sure everything is well combined—this is the magical mixture that will create that gooey swirl you love! Keep this mixture nearby for the next step; you'll need it shortly.

Combine the cake batter ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 360 g of plain flour, 200 g of caster sugar, and 4 teaspoons of baking powder. Use a whisk to get everything evenly mixed. Then, pour in 300 ml of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 lightly beaten large eggs at room temperature. Whisk these ingredients until just combined—don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; that’s normal! Finally, gently stir in 110 g of melted unsalted butter, ensuring it’s cooled slightly before adding.

Fold in the apples and prepare for baking

Gently fold in those beautifully spiced apples into your batter. Once everything is well combined, pour the mixture into your prepared baking tray, spreading it evenly. Now, dollop the cinnamon swirl mixture across the top of the batter and use a knife to swirl it through; it should stay near the surface and create that lovely marbled effect.

Bake the cake and prepare the glaze

Bake your cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out mostly clean—though it’s okay if a few crumbs cling to it! While your cake is baking, you can prepare the glaze. Simply mix together 200 g of icing sugar and 40 ml of whole milk until smooth. When your cake is done, pour this sweet glaze over the warm cake, letting it ooze into any cracks—trust me, this is the best part!

Let your Cinnamon Apple Cake cool in the tray for about 45 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm or cooled; it’s fantastic either way! For more baking tips and tricks, check out The Kitchn or BBC Good Food. Happy baking!

Variations on Cinnamon Apple Cake

Adding Nuts or Dried Fruits

For an added crunch and complexity, consider incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into your Cinnamon Apple Cake. Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor beautifully. Dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, can also make a delightful addition, adding bursts of sweetness and texture. Both options will elevate your cake to a whole new level!

Incorporating Different Types of Apples

Don’t hesitate to experiment with various apple types! Sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji bring out a lovely juiciness, while tart apples like Granny Smith can add a delightful contrast. Mixing different apples can create a nuanced flavor profile that tickles your taste buds. Remember, each apple variety offers unique qualities, so choose according to your flavor preference. For more tips on apples, check out the Apple Expert.

Cooking tips and notes for Cinnamon Apple Cake

Tips for achieving a moist cake

To ensure your Cinnamon Apple Cake comes out irresistibly moist, always use room temperature ingredients. This helps the batter combine more smoothly, leading to a better texture. Remember to avoid overmixing once you add the flour; gentle folding is key! Also, allow your apples to express their moisture by ensuring they’re well-coated with cinnamon and sugar, adding flavor and juiciness to the batter.

Best practices for storage

To keep your Cinnamon Apple Cake soft and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its moisture for up to three days. If you have leftovers, consider freezing slices in zip-lock bags, which are perfect for a quick treat later on. For best results, let the cake cool completely before storing, ensuring it doesn’t become soggy.

For additional inspiration, check out this article on perfecting cake storage.

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Apple Cake

Best Accompaniments for Serving

When it comes to serving your Cinnamon Apple Cake, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream elevates the experience beautifully. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or a cozy cup of spiced chai for a comforting afternoon treat. For a healthier option, consider serving slices with a side of Greek yogurt, adding a protein boost and a creamy contrast to the cake's sweetness.

Ideas for Garnishing

Garnishing can transform your Cinnamon Apple Cake from delightful to stunning. A light dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon on top gives it a gourmet touch. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add texture and a pop of color. For a seasonal twist, drizzle with caramel sauce or a simple honey glaze to enhance that rich, warm flavor.

Discover more serving ideas and tips on Simply Recipes for a deliciously sweet presentation!

Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Apple Cake

Preparation time
Gather your ingredients and get your hands dirty! The preparation of this delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake takes about 15 minutes. That’s just enough time to channel your inner baker and whip up excitement for what's to come.

Baking time
Once the cake is in the oven, it needs about 40 to 45 minutes to achieve that golden perfection. Use this time to relax, sip some tea, or perhaps tackle a quick chore.

Total time
From start to finish, this Cinnamon Apple Cake will take approximately 1 hour. Just an hour of your day for a dessert that brings such joy—perfect for a cozy gathering or a sweet treat for yourself!

For more tips on mastering your baking skills, check out reliable resources like BBC Good Food or America's Test Kitchen.

Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Apple Cake

Calories per Serving

Each piece of this delightful Cinnamon Apple Cake packs in approximately 293 calories. Perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth without going overboard!

Breakdown of Major Nutrients

When you dive into a slice, here’s what you’re getting:

Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 11g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
Sugar: 32g

This cake isn’t just delicious; it features wholesome ingredients like apples for a touch of fiber (1g) and a dash of Vitamin A (354 IU). For more detailed nutrient analyses, consider checking out resources like the USDA FoodData Central, which provides comprehensive food information.

With its balanced mix of flavors and nutrients, Cinnamon Apple Cake can be both a treat and a comfort food!

FAQ about Cinnamon Apple Cake

How can I make this cake healthier?

Looking to lighten up your Cinnamon Apple Cake? You can substitute some ingredients to enhance its nutritional value. Try using whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar content by using mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce as a natural sweetener. Additionally, consider replacing half of the butter with Greek yogurt; this will keep the cake moist while cutting down on saturated fats.

Can I freeze cinnamon apple cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze your Cinnamon Apple Cake if you want to enjoy it later. Simply slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy it at room temperature or warmed up.

What can I serve with cinnamon apple cake?

Pairing your Cinnamon Apple Cake can elevate your dessert experience. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast. For a more sophisticated option, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle with toasted nuts for an added crunch. You could also serve it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat!

Conclusion on Cinnamon Apple Cake

Final thoughts on baking and enjoying this cake

Baking this Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful experience that culminates in a warm, fragrant treat loved by family and friends alike. As you enjoy each moist bite, you’ll appreciate the cozy combination of apples and cinnamon. Share it with loved ones, and savor every moment!