Cinnamon Apple Cake

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of apples, cinnamon, and vanilla. It’s a moist, tender cake that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. The balance of sweet apples, aromatic cinnamon, and a soft buttery crumb makes it a timeless classic loved by generations.

History
Cinnamon Apple Cake has deep roots in traditional European baking, especially in Germany and Austria where apple desserts are part of the cultural identity. Early versions like “Apfelkuchen” were made with orchard-fresh apples, sugar, and spices. As this recipe traveled to America, it evolved into a homier version often baked in one pan and topped with a cinnamon-sugar crust. The combination of cinnamon and apple became a household favorite because of its simplicity, affordability, and warmth — especially during the fall harvest season when apples were abundant.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• ¼ cup milk (if batter feels too thick)

For the Topping

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare the pan
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and lightly dust it with flour or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy — about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add eggs and vanilla
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine wet and dry mixtures
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the Greek yogurt (or sour cream). Begin and end with the flour mixture. If the batter is too thick, add milk to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
6. Fold in apples
   Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour and top
   Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top.
8. Bake
   Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
9. Cool and serve
   Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze.

Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants: Apples are packed with vitamin C and polyphenols that help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
• Digestive aid: Cinnamon and apples both contain dietary fiber that promotes healthy digestion.
• Mood-boosting comfort: The scent of cinnamon is known to reduce stress and uplift your mood — making this cake not only delicious but soothing.
• Balanced sweetness: The combination of natural fruit sugars and spices allows you to enjoy sweetness without being overly sugary.

Conclusion
Cinnamon Apple Cake is more than just dessert — it’s a slice of nostalgia and comfort in every bite. Whether you bake it for a cozy family gathering or to enjoy with your morning coffee, this cake celebrates the simple pleasure of home baking. Its golden crust, tender crumb, and aromatic spice make it a dessert that never goes out of style.