If you’re searching for a cozy, heartwarming dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than the Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe. This cake combines tender, moist crumb infused with the natural sweetness of red apples and a lovely touch of cinnamon spice topping that elevates it into a celebration of fall flavors any time of year. Each slice offers that perfect balance of soft texture and a lightly crisp cinnamon-sugar crown, finished with a delicate glaze that makes it utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a casual afternoon treat, this recipe brings a burst of joy and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for the Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe is refreshingly simple, yet every component plays an essential role in delivering the cake’s perfect texture, flavor, and aroma. From the choice of flour to the fresh apples and a hint of vanilla, these ingredients blend to create a moist, tender cake with a beautifully spiced topping.
- 210 grams (1 and 1/2 cups) plain flour or all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender crumb that holds everything together.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to light, fluffy perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Assists in even texture and slight browning.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and warm flavors beautifully.
- 150 grams (3/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
- 1 cup (approximately 1 large) red apple, peeled and roughly chopped: Adds freshness, moisture, and a gentle fruity bite.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients and adds richness for a satisfying texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lends a warm, aromatic backdrop to the apple and cinnamon notes.
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil or flavorless oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft for days.
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) Greek yogurt: Contributes tenderness and a subtle tang to balance sweetness.
- 50 grams (1/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar: For the cinnamon topping’s perfect sugary crunch.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The signature spice that defines this delightful cake’s soul.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted: Brings richness and helps the cinnamon topping stick beautifully.
- 30 grams (1/4 cup) icing sugar or powdered sugar, sifted: For the light, sweet glaze that finishes the cake with a shine.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze consistency to just right.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 180°C (350°F) for a standard oven or 160°C (320°F) if you’re using fan-forced heat. Greasing and lining an 8-inch round cake pan with baking or parchment paper ensures your cake will come out effortlessly while encouraging even browning on the sides.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the larger portion of sugar. Adding the peeled and roughly chopped apple pieces right into the dry mixture helps coat them lightly in flour, which prevents sinking and keeps their evenly distributed fresh bursts throughout the cake.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt. Whisk them thoroughly until smooth and well combined—this mixture will add moisture and tender richness to the final cake crumb.
Step 4: Gently Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add the wet ingredients to the dry apple-flour mixture and fold carefully until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; a gentle hand means a soft, fluffy cake rather than a dense one. Once combined, transfer the batter evenly to the prepared cake pan.
Step 5: Create and Add the Cinnamon Topping
Mix together the smaller portion of sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture looks lumpy and richly scented. Sprinkle this heavenly cinnamon topping evenly over the batter. It’s this final touch that gives the Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe its signature warm, spiced crunch atop the soft cake.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for around 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before moving to the final steps, so it holds its shape beautifully.
Step 7: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk together sifted icing sugar and milk to create a smooth, slightly runny glaze. Drizzle this lovingly over the cooled cake, allowing it to seep gently into the cinnamon topping and add an elegant, sweet finish that makes every bite a little more special.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe
Garnishes
For a truly inviting presentation, sprinkle a few extra apple slices or a dusting of cinnamon over the glazed top just before serving. Freshly whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt also pairs beautifully, adding creamy richness to balance the cake’s spicy sweetness.
Side Dishes
This cake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A simple green salad can be a delightful contrast if serving it as part of a brunch spread, helping to refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn the Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe into a showstopper by layering slices between thin layers of cream cheese frosting or serving individual portions in teacups with layers of apple compote and cinnamon sugar sprinkled on top. This cake can easily become your new go-to for everything from casual get-togethers to special celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to three days at room temperature. Refrigeration is optional but will extend freshness up to five days; just allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
The Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled cake layers or slices tightly in cling film, then place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
For that freshly baked warmth, gently reheat slices in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm in a low oven (around 150°C or 300°F) for 5 to 10 minutes. This restores softness and brings out the comforting aromas of cinnamon and apples all over again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests a red apple for sweetness and color, you can use Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for extra juiciness—just make sure to peel and chop them roughly for even baking.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, and use a dairy-free butter or coconut oil for the cinnamon topping, making it friendly for dairy-free diets without losing flavor or texture.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Use the classic skewer test: insert a thin skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done and ready to be taken out of the oven.
Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?
Definitely! Just remember to use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time accordingly—start checking the cake after 40 minutes and use the skewer test to avoid overbaking.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
Light olive oil, melted coconut oil, or even melted butter can replace vegetable oil, adding slight variations in flavor and richness to the cake while keeping it moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe that invites you back for seconds and makes every gathering a little warmer. Its blend of apples, cinnamon, and a tender crumb is a timeless combination that never fails to impress. I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive into baking this cake—whether for a quiet afternoon treat or sharing with friends, it’s sure to become one of your favorite recipes, cherished and called upon again and again.
Print
Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Apple Cake Delight is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines tender chunks of red apple with a spiced cinnamon sugar topping and a light glaze. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a sweet ending to any meal, this cake features a balanced blend of cinnamon, apples, and a hint of vanilla for an irresistibly delicious experience.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 210 grams (1 and 1/2 cups) plain flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 150 grams (3/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
Fruit
- 1 cup (approximately 1 large) red apple, peeled and roughly chopped
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil or flavorless oil
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) Greek yogurt
Cinnamon Topping
- 50 grams (1/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Glaze
- 30 grams (1/4 cup) icing sugar or powdered sugar, sifted
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) standard or 160°C (320°F) fan-forced. Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with baking or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 150 grams of caster sugar. Add the peeled and roughly chopped red apple to this mixture and stir briefly to distribute the fruit evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt until well blended and smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix gently with a spatula or spoon, just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Prepare the Cake for Baking: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top slightly.
- Make Cinnamon Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 50 grams of caster sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture becomes lumpy. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake batter.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and cool the cake on a wire rack.
- Prepare Glaze: While the cake cools, mix the sifted icing sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk to create a smooth glaze.
- Finish the Cake: Drizzle the prepared glaze evenly over the cooled cake for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Notes
- Use a tart red apple like Granny Smith or Braeburn for a nice balance of sweetness and tanginess.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check the cake a few minutes before the minimum baking time to avoid overbaking.
- You can substitute the Greek yogurt with sour cream for a similar texture.
- The cinnamon topping adds a delightful crunch and spice, so don’t skip it!
- Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
