Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake – A Cozy Dessert You’ll Love

Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake is that feel-good dessert you make when your home could use a little extra comfort (and maybe the smell of cinnamon wafting through the air). It’s tender, buttery, and loaded with juicy chunks of apples wrapped in a soft, spiced cake that tastes like fall in every bite. The best part? It’s actually simple to make — no fancy mixer required, no complicated steps.

Just a handful of pantry staples and about an hour stand between you and the coziest homemade cake ever. Whether you’re baking it for a lazy Sunday afternoon, a family gathering, or just because you “accidentally” bought too many apples at the store, this Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake will win hearts fast. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, and you’ll have a dessert that feels straight out of grandma’s kitchen.

Table of Contents

What is Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake?

This Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake is a simple yet delightful homemade treat made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and a soft buttery batter. It’s that perfect cross between a coffee cake and a dessert cake — sweet but not overly so, moist yet light, with a hint of crunch from the walnuts. It’s one of those bakes that look humble but taste like pure nostalgia.

Imagine the scent of apples and cinnamon mingling in the oven — that’s the aroma that will have everyone gathering in your kitchen asking, “Is it ready yet?” This cake doesn’t need any frosting; a light glaze or even a dusting of powdered sugar will do the trick. Plus, it’s a versatile gem — perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert. If you love cozy bakes like my No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake or Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, this cake deserves a spot in your recipe box too.

Reasons to Try Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake

There’s a reason this Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake has a near-perfect rating — it’s one of those recipes that’s impossible to mess up. First, it’s beginner-friendly. No need to be a pro baker or own any special equipment. Just mix, bake, and smell the magic happen. Second, it’s made with everyday ingredients you likely already have — butter, sugar, flour, and apples.

Third, it’s adaptable! Swap walnuts for pecans, or skip the nuts altogether if you prefer a smoother texture. It’s also a fantastic way to use up apples that have been sitting in your fruit bowl just a little too long. And let’s be real: when that craving for something sweet hits but you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, this cake delivers. It’s also a cozy addition to your holiday baking lineup — pair it with a warm cup of tea or coffee and enjoy the simplicity of homemade goodness.

Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake

• 1¼ cups chopped apples (about 2 medium, peeled)
• ¼ cup softened butter
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup chopped walnuts

Instructions to Make Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake

Let’s break down this delicious Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake into a simple step-by-step guide you can actually enjoy doing — even if baking isn’t your thing. These instructions will help you move from “just ingredients” to a perfectly baked, cozy masterpiece that smells like autumn and tastes like home.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start your step-by-step journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to give your oven a head start so it’s hot and ready once the batter is mixed. Grease a 9-inch round baking pan with non-stick spray or butter, and if you want to be extra safe (especially if your pans tend to cling), line the bottom with parchment paper. This little trick guarantees a smooth cake release later on. If you’re new to baking, check out my tips on how to prepare baking pans the right way — because no one likes that heart-stopping moment when cake sticks to the pan.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars Together

Now for the fun part — creaming. In a large bowl, beat together ¼ cup softened butter, ¼ cup sugar, and ¼ cup dark brown sugar until the mixture becomes pale, fluffy, and almost cloud-like. This step traps air into your batter, which is key for that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love in Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake. A hand or stand mixer works perfectly, but a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick too.

This is where the magic begins — that buttery-sweet aroma will start to hit, and you’ll know you’re on the right track. If you’re craving more buttery desserts, try my Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls later — it’s savory comfort food at its best.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add in two large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. This helps the batter stay smooth and silky without separating. Once both eggs are fully incorporated, stir in ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract. That subtle vanilla note balances the cinnamon and apple flavors perfectly. You’ll notice your batter becoming glossy — that’s exactly what you want before adding the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Whisking is more than just mixing — it aerates the dry ingredients and evenly distributes the baking soda, which ensures your cake rises beautifully. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth (see my Harvest Delight Pumpkin Sage Bisque for more cozy spice inspiration).

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now comes the classic baking balancing act — mixing the dry ingredients into the wet. Gradually add the flour mixture to your butter-sugar base on low speed (or gently by hand). This step-by-step blending keeps your cake batter light instead of dense. Mix only until everything looks combined — don’t overdo it! Overmixing can toughen your cake, and we want that tender, soft crumb.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Walnuts

Time to add the stars of the show. Gently fold in 1¼ cups of chopped apples and ½ cup of walnuts using a spatula. Folding means turning the batter over itself slowly, not stirring — think of it as a gentle hug for your ingredients. You’ll want the apple chunks and walnuts evenly scattered throughout the batter so every bite has that delightful crunch and fruity sweetness.

If you’re looking for nut-free swaps or healthy ingredient alternatives, check out my Healthy Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole — it’s full of smart substitution tips you can apply in any recipe.

Step 7: Pour, Smooth, and Bake

Scrape the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with your spatula. The batter will be thick — that’s normal. Tap the pan lightly on the counter a couple of times to release any trapped air bubbles. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).

While the cake bakes, your home will fill with that cozy cinnamon-apple aroma — the kind that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking, “What’s that smell?”

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove your cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. This cooling period helps the cake firm up, making it easier to handle. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

When it’s fully cooled, slice your Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake into wedges and serve it plain, or go the extra mile with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a cozy treat for any occasion — breakfast, dessert, or just because it’s Tuesday.

And if you loved this step-by-step recipe, you’ll adore my No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake — another quick, apple-inspired dessert that’s just as easy and satisfying.

What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with just about anything cozy. Try it with a steaming mug of coffee or tea for a lazy morning breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up. If you’re serving it for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce will take it to the next level. For a brunch table, pair it with savory dishes like Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots or Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce. The combination of sweet and savory makes for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

Key Tips for Making Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake

Use a sweet apple variety like Honeycrisp or Gala for the best flavor balance. If you like more texture, leave a few apple chunks slightly larger. For a richer taste, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice — it deepens the flavor beautifully. Always mix your wet and dry ingredients just until combined; overmixing can make your cake dense. Don’t skip cooling time — letting the cake rest helps the flavors develop. And here’s a pro tip: this cake actually tastes even better the next day once the spices settle in.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake

Keep your leftover cake fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a humid area, refrigerate it instead to prevent the top from getting sticky. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds — just long enough to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! Bake it a day in advance and store it tightly covered. The flavors actually deepen overnight.
Can I skip the nuts? Of course — they’re optional! The cake will still be moist and flavorful.
What if I don’t have dark brown sugar? Light brown sugar works too; it’ll just be a touch less caramel-like.
Can I use whole wheat flour? You can, but it will make the texture slightly denser. Try half all-purpose, half whole wheat for balance.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake is the kind of bake that makes your home smell like love. It’s simple, heartwarming, and impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or just because you need something sweet with your coffee, it’s bound to become a family favorite. And if you’re craving more cozy recipes, check out No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake or Harvest Delight Pumpkin Sage Bisque — both perfect for pairing with your next baking day.

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