Cinnamon Apple Cake

There’s something magical about the combination of apples and cinnamon. The warm spice, the sweet fruit, and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes—it’s pure coziness in cake form. This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a rustic, old-fashioned dessert that celebrates simple ingredients and bold flavors. It’s tender, moist, and filled with chunks of apple and crunchy walnuts, making it a perfect cake for fall gatherings, afternoon coffee, or even as a sweet breakfast treat.

Unlike frosted cakes that require layers and decoration, this apple cake is humble and unfussy, yet incredibly delicious. It comes together in a single bowl with pantry staples you probably already have on hand. What makes it stand out is its deep flavor—the rich caramel-like sweetness of dark brown sugar, the warmth of cinnamon, and the fresh juiciness of apples all baked into a moist crumb that stays soft for days.

Whether you’re baking for your family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or looking for a dessert that’s equal parts comforting and impressive, this apple cake will hit the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Cake

• One-bowl recipe – No complicated steps or multiple dishes to wash.
• Moist and flavorful – Thanks to apples, oil, and brown sugar, every bite is tender and rich.
• Perfectly spiced – Cinnamon ties the flavors together beautifully.
• Rustic charm – No frosting needed; just slice and enjoy.
• Crowd-friendly – Serves 8–10, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated white sugar
• ½ cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the cinnamon, both sugars, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Stir in the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Mix until the batter is smooth and no streaks of flour remain.

Step 4: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped apple and walnuts. The apples provide moisture and sweetness, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 5 days, though it may firm slightly. Bring to room temp before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cake

• Use a firm apple variety – Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best, as they hold their shape during baking.
• Don’t overmix – Stir until just combined to keep the cake tender.
• Toast the walnuts – Lightly toast nuts before adding for deeper flavor.
• Try it warm – Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Dust with sugar – A sprinkle of powdered sugar makes for a simple yet elegant finish.

Creative Variations

• Cinnamon Apple Bundt Cake: Bake in a bundt pan for a more dramatic presentation.
• Apple Crumble Cake: Add a buttery streusel topping for extra sweetness and crunch.
• Glazed Apple Cake: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for added sweetness.
• Apple Spice Cake: Add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to complement the cinnamon.
• Apple Carrot Cake: Fold in shredded carrots for extra texture and flavor.

Perfect Pairings

• With Coffee: The warmth of cinnamon pairs beautifully with a strong cup of coffee.
• With Tea: Earl Grey or chai tea complement the cake’s spice.
• With Ice Cream: Vanilla or salted caramel ice cream makes it indulgent.
• With Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different oil?
Yes, you can use canola or even melted coconut oil, though it may slightly change the flavor.

Can I make this cake without nuts?
Absolutely! Simply omit the walnuts, or replace them with raisins or dried cranberries.

What if I only have light brown sugar?
Light brown sugar works too, though the cake will have a slightly milder flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Bake in a 9×13-inch pan instead, adjusting bake time to 50–55 minutes.

Can I add frosting?
Of course! A cream cheese frosting would pair beautifully with this cake.

Wrapping It Up

This Cinnamon Apple Cake is the epitome of simple, rustic baking done right. With its tender crumb, bursts of juicy apple, and warm cinnamon spice, it’s a dessert that feels both homestyle and indulgent. Perfect for weeknight baking or special occasions, it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

What makes it truly special is its versatility. Serve it as a dessert with ice cream, as a coffee cake in the morning, or even as a sweet snack in the afternoon. However you slice it, this cake is bound to bring warmth and comfort to your table.

So the next time you’re craving something cozy and sweet, or you have apples sitting in your kitchen waiting to be used, bake this Cinnamon Apple Cake. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to fill your home with the aroma of fall.