2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch
Choosing the Best Apples
The variety of apple you choose can make a big difference:
Granny Smith – Tart and firm, balances the sweetness perfectly.
Honeycrisp – Naturally sweet with a satisfying crunch.
Fuji or Gala – Softer, sweeter, and great if you want a milder apple flavor.
If you’re baking for the holidays, mix two different types of apples for extra depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Oven & Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until combined.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
see more in the next page
Apple and Cinnamon Cake
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together with a mixer until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Wet & Dry
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.
4. Add Apples & Bake
Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream for a pretty finish.
Expert Tips for Success
Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures your batter mixes smoothly.
Don’t overmix – Overmixing creates a dense, tough cake.
Choose crisp apples – Softer apples can turn mushy during baking.
Add spice variety – A pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom adds warmth.
Double it up – This recipe can be baked in a 9×13-inch pan if you’re feeding a crowd.
Serving Suggestions
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