Description

There’s something inherently comforting about the aroma of fresh-baked goods wafting through your home, especially when those goods include apples and cinnamon. This delightful Apple and Cinnamon Cake not only exudes a warm, inviting fragrance but also delights the palate with its combination of sweet apple pieces, a hint of spice, and a soft, tender crumb. Originating from classic farmhouse recipes, this cake is a celebration of simplicity and flavor that has stood the test of time.

The beauty of this Apple and Cinnamon Cake lies in its versatility. It can be a centerpiece for your breakfast table, a delightful addition to your afternoon tea, or a sweet treat to enjoy after dinner. Imagine slicing into a slice of golden cake, the juicy apple pieces peeking through, and sharing it with loved ones while reminiscing about cherished moments around the kitchen table. It's not just a recipe; it's an experience that invites joy, warmth, and togetherness.

The preparation of this cake is surprisingly easy, making it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll be on your way to creating a beautiful, homey dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• Two cups of regular flour
• Two teaspoons of baking powder
• Half a teaspoon of baking soda
• Half a teaspoon of salt
• One and a half teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• Half a teaspoon of nutmeg powder
• Half a cup of unsalted butter, at room temperature
• One cup of granulated sugar
• Two large eggs
• One teaspoon of vanilla extract
• One cup of sour cream
• Two cups of apples, peeled, cored, and cut into small pieces (approximately two medium-sized apples)
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
• A quarter cup of granulated sugar
• One teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Preparation Method

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your baking environment is key to achieving a perfect cake. While the oven is heating up, take a moment to prepare your baking pan. Grease and flour a 9x9-inch square baking pan or a round cake pan of similar size. This step is crucial as it ensures that your cake will slide right out of the pan when it's done baking.

In a medium mixing bowl, gather your dry ingredients. Combine the regular flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg powder. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. The spices not only add flavor but also create layers of warmth and complexity.

Next, focus on creaming the butter and sugar. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat the softened butter and the cup of sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. The air you’re incorporating at this stage is vital for a light texture in the finished cake.

One by one, add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Follow this by stirring in the vanilla extract, which will infuse the batter with a warm, sweet aroma.

Now, it’s time to bring your wet and dry ingredients together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. It’s essential to start with the dry ingredients first, as this helps prevent lumps from forming. Mix until just combined — be cautious here! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and our goal is a soft, tender crumb.

Once the batter is combined, fold in the diced apples gently. Their sweet juiciness will create pockets of flavor and texture throughout the cake, making each bite a delicious surprise.

Carefully transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. You want to ensure that the surface is smooth so that it bakes uniformly.

For the finishing touch, prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping. In a small bowl, combine the quarter cup of granulated sugar with one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix these ingredients together so that the cinnamon is evenly distributed. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the cake batter in the baking pan. This cinnamon sugar layer will create a delightful crust as the cake bakes, adding a sweet and spicy flavor profile on top.

Place your baking pan carefully into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top has transformed into a lovely golden-brown color. The scent that fills your kitchen during this time will be utterly mouthwatering and the perfect precursor to the delicious treat you've created.

Once you’ve pulled the cake from the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This brief resting time helps the cake solidify a bit before you move it. You can then either slice it warm, a perfect option for those who can’t wait, or let it cool completely before cutting it into generous squares for serving.

If you desire to take your delightful cake to the next level, consider drizzling a simple icing over the top after it has cooled. You can easily whip this up by mixing powdered sugar with a small amount of milk until you reach your desired consistency. Pour the icing gently over the cooled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides, adding another layer of sweetness.

Tips and Conclusion

To add a unique twist to this Apple and Cinnamon Cake, consider incorporating nuts or raisins into your batter. Chopped walnuts or pecans will add a delightful crunch, while raisins can bring a chewy texture that complements the soft apples perfectly. You can also experiment with other spices like cardamom for an exotic flavor or a splash of bourbon to enhance the richness.

For storage, keep the cake in an airtight container. It will retain its freshness for about three days at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week. If you’re lucky enough to have any leftover slices, they freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy another slice, simply thaw it at room temperature.
Making this Apple and Cinnamon Cake is not just about following a recipe; it's about creating a comforting and delicious creation that will evoke memories of family gatherings, cozy autumn evenings, and sweet moments with loved ones. With its aromatic spices and juicy apples, every bite is a testament to the joy of home baking.

Don't stop here! If you enjoyed this recipe, consider exploring more delightful treats on our site that encompass the same warmth and flavor as this cake. Recipes like our Moist Carrot Cake or Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake are waiting for you to discover. We invite you to share this Apple and Cinnamon Cake recipe with friends and family, igniting the same love for baking within them. Happy baking, and may every slice bring joy to your kitchen!