This rustic apple cinnamon cake is a delightful, comforting treat that’s incredibly simple to bake. You’ll love how easily it comes together, making it perfect for any occasion when you crave a homemade dessert. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of simple cake recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. You can substitute with pears for a different flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard for baking. A gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend can be used as a substitute.
- Cinnamon: Essential for flavor. You can add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
- Butter: Unsalted is preferred for control over saltiness. Margarine can be used in a pinch.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel note. Granulated sugar can be used, but brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes)
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced into ½-inch pieces
For the Topping (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan. This ensures your simple cake bakes perfectly and releases easily.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this dry mixture aside. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents.
3. Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. This creates the creamy base for your apple cinnamon cake.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. Gently fold in the diced apples.
5. Prepare Optional Topping
If using, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter with your fingertips or a pastry blender until crumbly. This topping adds extra texture and flavor.
6. Bake Your Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. If using, sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This is a crucial test for many simple cake recipes.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy this comforting treat.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
- Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake.
- Use a mix of apples and pears for a different fruit combination.
- Stir in a tablespoon of orange zest for a bright citrus note.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover apple cinnamon cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. You can gently warm individual slices in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes, you can use any firm apple you enjoy, but tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness well.
Q: My cake is dry, what went wrong?
A: Overmixing the batter or overbaking can lead to a dry cake. Ensure you mix until just combined and check for doneness at the earliest recommended time.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can make a substitute by adding 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Q: Can I freeze this apple cinnamon cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cooled cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Q: Is this a good recipe for beginners?
A: Yes, this is one of those simple cake recipes that’s very forgiving and great for novice bakers.