When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, nothing warms the heart (and kitchen) quite like the aroma of apples and cinnamon baking together. The Apple Cinnamon Cake is a timeless dessert that embodies the essence of comfort food — soft, moist cake filled with tender apples, spiced with cinnamon, and sometimes finished with a crunchy topping.
This cake isn’t just for autumn, though. Its simplicity and flavor make it a year-round favorite, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack with tea or coffee.
Why Apple Cinnamon Cake Is So Special
The magic of this cake lies in its balance:
Moist and tender crumb from fresh apples.
Warm spice from cinnamon (and sometimes nutmeg or cloves).
Versatility — it can be enjoyed plain, glazed, or dusted with powdered sugar.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels homemade in every sense, reminding you of family kitchens, cozy evenings, and traditions passed down through generations.
Classic Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)