This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
The soft, spiced cake, packed with chunks of tender apple, is topped with a sweet cinnamon crumble, giving it a delightful texture and flavor.
To top it off, a smooth sugar glaze is drizzled over the cake, adding the perfect touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Apple cake
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
1 cup (approximately 1 large) red apple, peeled and roughly chopped
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable 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
Sugar glaze
30 grams (1/4 cup) icing sugar or powdered sugar, sifted
1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Preheat oven to 180 C (350 F) standard / 160 C (320 F) fan-forced. Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with baking or parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and sugar.
Add chopped apple and stir briefly to combine.
In a separate bowl, add eggs, vanilla, oil and yoghurt. Whisk briefly just to break up the egg yolks.
Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and gently mix with a wooden spoon until combined – but be careful not to over mix.
Spoon batter into prepared tin.
To make cinnamon topping, combine cinnamon, sugar and butter.
Mix together until lumpy and wet. Sprinkle over cake batter.
Bake cake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.
Transfer cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the glaze, mix together sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk. Stir until smooth.
If the glaze is too thick, add an extra tablespoon of milk. Drizzle glaze all over the cake.
Variations & Tips:
Add Nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, you can mix in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the cake batter or sprinkle them on top along with the cinnamon topping.
Spices: While cinnamon is the star here, feel free to add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves to enhance the spiced aroma.
Apple pie spice is also a great option for a more complex flavor.
Fruit Options: Try swapping the apples for other fruits like pears or even berries (such as blueberries or raspberries).
If using berries, reduce the sugar slightly since they tend to be sweeter.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the Greek yogurt and butter with dairy-free options like coconut yogurt and dairy-free margarine for a vegan version of the cake.
Topping Alternatives: Instead of a sugar glaze, you could dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a lighter finish or top it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
How to Store:
At Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the cake within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
In the Fridge: To extend freshness, store the cake in the fridge for up to a week.
Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: If you want to store the cake for longer, freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag.
It will keep well for up to 3 months. To defrost, let the slices thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions:
With Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side pairs wonderfully with the warm, spiced cake.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: This cake makes a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or any time you want a comforting dessert.
Serve as a Breakfast Cake: If you’re feeling adventurous, this cinnamon apple cake also makes for a great breakfast option—lightly toasted with a cup of coffee, it’s the perfect start to your day.
Top with Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgence, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the cake just before serving.
These variations, storage tips, and serving suggestions will help you get the most out of this delicious cake, making it a treat everyone will love