If you’re looking for a cozy, mouthwatering treat that comes together in no time, then this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a deliciously sweet crust, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something simple yet satisfying. With straightforward ingredients and a hassle-free method, it’s a wonderful way to bring that comforting homemade vibe to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and simple: The Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake uses basic pantry ingredients and requires minimal prep time.
Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet apples and cinnamon blend harmoniously for a classic dessert everyone loves.
Moist and tender texture: The cake stays soft and flavorful, making each bite delightfully satisfying.
Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
Great for beginner bakers: Clear instructions make it ideal for novices craving a homemade dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, this cake comes together effortlessly. Each component has a key role, from adding sweetness to creating that perfect soft crumb and rich aroma that defines the Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake.

Apples: Fresh, crisp apples bring natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
All-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s soft yet sturdy structure.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter and helps form the cinnamon sugar topping.
Cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy notes that enhance the apple flavor beautifully.
Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises evenly for a light texture.
Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens overall flavor.
Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
Eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s sweetness with a subtle depth.
Milk: Adds softness and ensures the batter isn’t dry.

Variations for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Feel free to tweak it according to your preferences or dietary needs—it’s easy to make this classic dessert your own.

Nutty crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast.
Spice it up: Incorporate nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for extra warmth.
Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend without sacrificing taste.
Healthier twist: Swap some sugar for honey or maple syrup and use applesauce in place of butter.
Apple variety: Experiment with tart Granny Smith or sweet Fuji apples, depending on your flavor preference.

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake: Quick & Delicious

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into thin, even pieces so they cook evenly and blend perfectly into the cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and sugar—the base for that tender yet flavorful cake layer.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer or by hand, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy, which helps create a moist and tender crumb.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough.

Step 6: Add Apples

Fold in the sliced apples, distributing them evenly so every bite has that wonderful fruity burst.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix extra sugar and cinnamon to sprinkle over the cake before baking, creating a sweet, crunchy crust.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before slicing to let the flavors settle and make serving easier.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

Use fresh apples: Fresh apples deliver the best texture and natural sweetness, making your cake extra moist.
Don’t overmix: Mix until ingredients just come together to avoid a dense cake.
Room temperature butter and eggs: Helps blend ingredients evenly and improves cake texture.
Check for doneness early: Ovens vary, so start testing at 35 minutes to avoid drying out the cake.
Add a splash of lemon juice: Tossing apples in lemon juice prevents browning and adds a slight tang.

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds an elegant, delicious finishing touch to this apple cake.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or steaming coffee to enhance the experience, or pair it with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Try individual servings in ramekins for a charming touch, or slice and serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months—perfect for prepping desserts ahead of time.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven to bring back that fresh-baked softness and enhance flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this cake?

Fresh apples work best because they retain texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to prevent a soggy cake.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The straightforward steps and common ingredients make the Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake ideal for novice bakers.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Yes! Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use flax or chia eggs as an egg substitute for a delicious vegan version.

What type of apples are best for the cake?

Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and balance sweetness, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp add a softer, sweeter touch.

How long does the cake stay fresh?

When stored properly, this apple cake stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator and freezes well for several months.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is a quick, flavorful way to bring warmth and comfort into your kitchen without spending hours baking. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo with a cozy drink. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients and a little cinnamon magic come together to create something truly special.

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

Print Recipe

This Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is a cozy and delicious dessert that combines tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a sweet crunchy topping. Using basic pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, it offers a moist, flavorful cake perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet nights in. Ideal for beginner bakers, this recipe brings comforting homemade vibes to your table effortlessly.

Author: Maria
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour is used)

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free version)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
¾ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)

Wet Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened (or applesauce for healthier twist)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup milk

Main Ingredient

2 large fresh apples (such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

Prep Your Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples to ensure even cooking and perfect integration into the cake.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and sugar. This forms the base for a tender and flavorful cake layer.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat softened butter with sugar using a mixer or by hand until light and fluffy to create a moist and tender crumb.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, avoiding overmixing to prevent toughness.
Add Apples: Fold in the sliced apples evenly so each bite contains a delicious fruity burst.
Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Mix extra sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl to sprinkle over the batter before baking, creating a sweet and crunchy crust.
Bake: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping evenly, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before slicing to let flavors settle and make serving easier.

Notes

Use fresh apples for the best texture and natural sweetness.
Mix ingredients until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
Use room temperature butter and eggs for better blending and improved texture.
Start checking for doneness at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Toss apples in a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning and add a slight tang.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cake)
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: apple cake, cinnamon sugar cake, easy apple dessert, homemade apple cake, cinnamon dessert, beginner baking recipe