Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe with you because it’s one of those cozy desserts that feels like a warm hug in every bite. I absolutely love how the combination of cinnamon, sweet apples, and a hint of apple cider reduction makes this cake uniquely flavorful without being overpowering. Whether you’re baking it for a casual family get-together or a festive fall brunch, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

What I adore most about this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe is how simple it is to make, yet it looks and tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. You’ll find that the tender crumb and the crunchy cinnamon sugar topping create the perfect contrast, making this cake irresistibly delicious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to when you want something comforting and a little bit special.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe are straightforward and easy to find, but each one plays an important role to bring out the best flavor and texture. Don’t rush on picking your apples—Honeycrisp or any crisp, tart apple will give the best balance to the sweetness.

• Apple Cider: Reducing it intensifies that apple flavor which makes this cake extra special.
• Coconut Oil: It adds moisture and a subtle richness, but you can swap it for melted butter if needed.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the sweetness and complements the spices perfectly.
• Egg: Binds everything together for a nice cake structure.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that blend beautifully with the cinnamon and apples.
• Apple Butter: A secret ingredient that boosts apple flavor and moisture.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake for a tender crumb.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise and keep a light texture.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors — don’t skip this!
• Apple or Pumpkin Pie Spice: The aromatic touch that makes this cake comforting and cozy.
• Honeycrisp Apples: Thinly sliced for that tender, slightly crunchy apple presence in every slice.
• Cold Salted Butter: Grated and mixed with sugar and cinnamon to create a perfectly crumbly topping.
• Granulated Sugar: Works with cinnamon for that classic crunchy topping you’ll love.
• Ground Cinnamon: For warmth and sweetness that blends well with the apples.

Variations

I like to keep things classic with this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe, but honestly, it’s super fun to experiment and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices or swap the apples for your favorites depending on what’s in season.

• Spice Mix: I’ve swapped apple pie spice with pumpkin pie spice when fall vibes kick in—it’s equally delicious and festive.
• Fruit Swap: You can try pears or even diced peaches for a twist that still pairs well with cinnamon sugar.
• Sweetener Substitution: Maple syrup works great instead of honey—especially if you want a richer sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Version: I’ve had success using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend, just watch baking time closely.

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring your apple cider into a small saucepan and bringing it to a boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat to let it gently simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes until it’s reduced down to around half a cup. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the apple flavor concentrates, and cooling it completely before adding to the batter is key to avoid scrambling your eggs later on.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled reduced cider with melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, egg, honey or maple syrup, and apple butter. Stir these together until they’re fully blended and smooth. You’ll notice this mixture is aromatic and slightly glossy, which is a great sign!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold in Apples

Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, and your chosen spice blend in a separate bowl. Gently add these dry ingredients into your wet mix, stirring just until combined. The key here is not to overmix — keep the batter thick and fold in your thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples carefully. This folding step helps distribute the apples evenly without bruising them.

Step 4: Spread the Batter and Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Pour and spread your thick batter evenly into a parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking dish. Next, in a small bowl, mix granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and grated cold salted butter together until it forms clumps. Sprinkle this amazing topping over the entire surface of the cake—it adds the best crunchy, buttery finish that makes this cake stand out.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll want to check around 30 minutes to avoid overbaking—insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Let it cool slightly before serving so the flavors settle perfectly.

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this apple cake with a simple drizzle of honey butter—it adds extra sweetness and creamy richness without being overwhelming. Sometimes I add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a pretty finishing touch, especially if serving as dessert.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot chai tea or fresh coffee for breakfast, or you could serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or custard if you want a dessert with an extra comforting vibe. It’s flexible enough to be part of many tables!

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch during fall holidays, I’ve served this cake cut into little squares on a wooden board with cinnamon sticks and small apple slices scattered around for presentation—it looks charming and invites people to dig in. Also, layering slices with apple butter spread between layers can turn it into a stunning layered cake for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover cake covered loosely with foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It stays moist and delicious, but if your kitchen is warm, popping it in the fridge is a safe bet.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! I slice it into portions, wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, let it thaw at room temperature or gently warm it up for a freshly baked feel.

Reheating

To reheat, I like popping slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warming them in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes. This helps refresh the crispy topping and brings back that just-baked warmth.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe is like a little slice of warmth and home in every bite, and that’s why it holds a special place in my kitchen. It’s approachable enough for everyday baking but special enough to impress guests or treat yourself. I really hope you try it soon—you’ll enjoy the sweet aromas filling your home and the smiles it brings around your table.

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