Cinnamon Apple Cake

Cinnamon Apple Cake: A Delectable Dessert for All Seasons

Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the warmth of cinnamon and the sweet tanginess of apples. This moist, flavorful cake is ideal for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive celebration. With its rustic charm and irresistible aroma, it’s a treat that’s bound to impress. Let’s dive into a detailed step-by-step guide to create this masterpiece in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Cinnamon Apple Cake, you’ll need:

For the cake batter:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup (120ml) milk or buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the apple mixture:

• 3 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced or thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the optional topping:

• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Mixture

1. Begin by preparing the apples. Peel, core, and dice or thinly slice three medium-sized apples.
2. Place the apples in a bowl and toss them with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Set this mixture aside to allow the apples to release their juices and absorb the cinnamon flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round or square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using).
2. Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil (or melted butter), granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk (or buttermilk) until the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Create the Batter

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
2. Once the batter is smooth, fold in the prepared apple mixture, ensuring the apple pieces are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Add the Optional Topping (if desired)

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, chopped walnuts or pecans, and melted butter.
2. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the batter for an added layer of texture and sweetness.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
2. Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Tips for Success

• Apple Variety: Use apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cinnamon Apple Cake is a timeless dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Happy baking!