Apple Cinnamon Cake

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Get ready to treat yourself to a warm, fragrant slice of homemade Apple Cinnamon Cake! This delightful cake combines the sweetness of diced apples with the comforting spice of cinnamon, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will remind you of cozy afternoons spent baking with family. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or an afternoon snack with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something so satisfying about baking with fresh apples, especially when they are paired with the warming aroma of cinnamon. This Apple Cinnamon Cake is incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the yogurt, and it showcases the natural sweetness of the apples beautifully. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this cake is versatile enough to impress guests or simply satisfy a sweet tooth at home. Plus, it fills your kitchen with a lovely scent that makes everyone want to gather around the table.

Ingredients

To create this delightful cake, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 apples, diced (about 1 cup)
• ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 and ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 and ¾ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ cup (65g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) oil (sunflower or canola or corn oil)
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• ½ cup (125ml) yogurt or sour cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How To Make Apple Cinnamon Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure your cake comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and dice the apples into small pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples with ¼ cup of light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Toss to coat the apples well and set aside. This step not only adds flavor to the apples but also helps to draw out some moisture for a deliciously moist cake.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and ¾ teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture forms the foundation of your cake, providing the right structure and rise.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup of oil until well combined. Add the 2 large eggs, ½ cup of yogurt (or sour cream), and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated. This mixture will keep your cake moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold in the apple mixture, ensuring the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will add delicious apple flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The aroma of baking apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature, and you can dust it with a little powdered sugar or enjoy it plain!

Expert Tips

• Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor—combining tart and sweet apples can give great depth to your cake.
• Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps with the batter’s emulsion, leading to a better texture.
• Don’t skip the step of tossing the apples with sugar and cinnamon; it enhances their flavor and moistness.
• Check the cake a few minutes before the baking time is up; oven temperatures can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking.

Variations and Customizations

• Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
• Include raisins or dried cranberries for added texture and fruity bursts.
• For a spice twist, add a teaspoon of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the dry mixture.
• Top the cake with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Apple Cinnamon Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, slice the cake and freeze individual pieces in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just note that the texture may change slightly.

What type of apples work best in this cake?

A mix of sweet and tart apples works wonderfully. We recommend using Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Apple Cinnamon Cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container once cooled, and it will be just as delicious the next day.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. It should also spring back when lightly pressed in the center.

Conclusion

This Apple Cinnamon Cake is an invitation to the cozy flavors of autumn, with the delightful sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. Easy to make and suitable for any occasion, it’s bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether shared with friends and family or savored during a quiet moment, each slice of this cake offers a comforting experience. So why wait? Gather those apples and start baking today for a treat that’s sure to be loved by all!

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