Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This will help create a tender cake texture.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Fold in the Apples:
- Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
- Pour into the Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter.
- Bake:
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the cake should spring back when lightly touched.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once it’s cooled, or enjoy it slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Final Thoughts:
Cinnamon Apple Cake is a wonderful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the warm, spicy flavors of cinnamon, making it the perfect treat for any time of year — especially when the weather turns cooler and you’re craving something cozy. It’s simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying, and its versatility makes it a great dessert to enjoy with family and friends. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a side of whipped cream or ice cream, this cake will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe!
