Introduction
Welcome to a slice of heaven that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of fresh apples and cinnamon! This delightful Apple and Cinnamon Cake is the perfect treat, whether you’re enjoying a cozy afternoon at home or entertaining friends and family. Each bite is a luscious blend of soft, moist cake studded with tender apples and a hint of spice, making it an irresistible dessert that brings everyone together. Get ready to indulge in a deliciously comforting classic!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 3-4 medium apples)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, exuding a sweet aroma.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra layer of flavor.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cake tender.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the luscious batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it out evenly to ensure a nice rise.
- In a small bowl, mix together the topping sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle this delightful mixture over the batter for a sweet crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing that it’s perfectly baked.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The smell will be utterly irresistible!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
- Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Cooking Techniques
Master the art of baking with a few essential techniques that can elevate your Apple and Cinnamon Cake:
- Creaming Butter and Sugar: This technique incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best results.
- Fold, Don’t Stir: When adding delicate ingredients like apples and nuts, fold them in gently to maintain the airiness of your batter.
- Test for Doneness: Besides the toothpick test, gently pressing the top of the cake should spring back when it’s fully baked.
FAQ
Can I use other types of fruit?
Absolutely! Pears or peaches would also be delightful substitutions for a seasonal twist.
Does this cake freeze well?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Substituting a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work well for those needing a gluten-free option.
Conclusion
There you have it—a warm, comforting Apple and Cinnamon Cake that’s perfect for any gathering or simply for enjoying with a cup of tea on a rainy afternoon. The combination of sweet apples and aromatic spices will have everyone asking for seconds. So preheat that oven and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful baked goodness. Happy baking!