Soft Baked Cinnamon Apple Cake

Name: Soft Baked Cinnamon Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith recommended); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Essentials

I can’t wait to share this mouthwatering Soft Baked Cinnamon Apple Cake with you! Every time I make it, the warm aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. The texture is incredibly soft, and the flavors are perfectly balanced, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion. I love serving it warm, with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will quickly become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-06T18:33:35.970Z

When I first attempted this Soft Baked Cinnamon Apple Cake, I was searching for a dessert that would evoke the feeling of autumn in every bite. I experimented with various apple varieties and settled on Granny Smith for their tartness, which compliments the sweetness of the cake perfectly. The result was a moist cake that not only tastes divine but also showcases the apples beautifully.

One of my favorite tips is to let the cake rest for a few minutes after baking. This short waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it so much easier to slice without falling apart. Each bite is a warm, comforting hug, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm, fragrant blend of cinnamon and apples that fills your kitchen
Irresistibly soft and moist texture that everyone will adore
Great for fall gatherings, celebrations, or any sweet craving

Understanding the Ingredients

In this Soft Baked Cinnamon Apple Cake, the choice of apples plays a crucial role in the overall taste and texture. I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the sugar. The apples not only provide flavor but also moisture, contributing to the cake's delectably soft texture. Make sure to cut them into small, even dice to ensure they cook properly and evenly distribute throughout the batter.

The combination of butter and sugar during the creaming step is foundational in creating a light and airy cake. By beating them together until fluffy, you’re incorporating air into the batter, which is essential for its rise. Be sure not to rush this step; take your time to achieve a light-colored, fluffy mixture that will help create that tender crumb we all love.

Baking Tips for Success

When it comes to baking, the temperature of your ingredients can impact the result. Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature, as this helps them combine more easily with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter. If you forget to take them out of the fridge in advance, you can warm the eggs gently in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes before using them.

Keep an eye on your cake during the final moments of baking. The cake is ready when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If you find the edges are browning too quickly, you can gently cover them with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-baking.

Ingredients

To make this delightful cinnamon apple cake, gather the following ingredients:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith recommended)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Here's how to make the Soft Baked Cinnamon Apple Cake:

Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Mix the Batter

Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually stir in the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Alternately add the milk, mixing until smooth.

Fold in the Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar with cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle it over the batter. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing. Serve warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try serving the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This indulgent touch will elevate the flavors even further.

Storing and Serving

For the best taste and texture, serve your cake warm. However, if you have leftovers, you can store the cake at room temperature for up to three days, covered to maintain moisture. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerating it is also an option, but ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.

If you want to reheat individual slices, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave can refresh the cake nicely, bringing back that lovely softness. Just be cautious not to overheat, as it can become rubbery. Alternatively, warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes can revive the cake without sacrificing its texture.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to experiment with the flavor profile of this cake! You can add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch and added richness. Dried cranberries or raisins can work as a sweet addition too, providing bursts of flavor in every bite. Just be sure to adjust the sugar according to your taste, especially if adding sweeter ingredients.

For a fun twist, consider swirls of caramel or a drizzle of icing on top after the cake has cooled. This could elevate your dessert and provide a luxurious finish, making it perfect for special occasions or impressing guests. Additionally, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for a unique flavor and added nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji, but keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.