Best Apple Cinnamon Cake Recipe – Moist, Easy Fall Dessert for Holidays

If you are looking for the best apple dessert to bake this season, this Apple Cinnamon Cake is exactly what you need. This moist and fluffy cake recipe combines fresh apples with warm cinnamon for a comforting homemade dessert that is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and cozy fall gatherings. Whether you are searching for easy holiday cakes, moist apple cake recipes, healthy apple desserts, or simply a family-friendly fall treat, this recipe delivers rich flavor, a soft texture, and bakery-style results without complicated steps. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can prepare a homemade cake that is not only delicious but also optimized for Google AdSense keywords with strong CPC potential.

Why This Apple Cinnamon Cake is the Perfect Fall Dessert

This cake stands out among the best fall desserts because it is versatile, quick to make, and filled with natural flavors. Fresh apples keep the cake moist, while ground cinnamon gives it a cozy and spiced aroma. It works well as a family dessert, a coffee cake for brunch, or even as a holiday centerpiece. Unlike other cakes, this recipe requires no fancy equipment and can be customized with nuts, raisins, or a simple glaze. It is also beginner-friendly, making it one of the best easy fall cake recipes for anyone who wants to bake like a pro.

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Cake

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 pure vanilla extract
½ cup milk
2 medium tart apples, peeled and diced
½ cup walnuts or pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Cake

Step 1 – Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2 – Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly blended.

Step 3 – Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4 – Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 5 – Add Apples and Nuts

Fold in diced apples and nuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 6 – Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7 – Cool and Serve

Cool the cake before slicing. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a light glaze.

Tips for the Best Apple Cinnamon Cake

Choose tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balanced flavor.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice.
Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier apple cake recipe.
Avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft and fluffy.
Freeze the cake for up to two months for easy holiday meal prep.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This cake is perfect with coffee, tea, or hot apple cider. For a decadent dessert, serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce. For a lighter version, enjoy it plain as a snack cake. You can also turn this recipe into apple cinnamon muffins by baking in a muffin tin for about 20 minutes. Add cranberries, raisins, or extra cinnamon for creative variations that make this cake even more festive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes this the best apple cake recipe?

This recipe uses fresh apples and cinnamon to create a moist, flavorful cake that is easy to bake and perfect for fall.

Can I make this cake healthier?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, use whole wheat flour, and add extra apples for a naturally sweet and healthy apple dessert.

How do I store apple cinnamon cake?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, pears or peaches can be substituted for apples, but apples provide the best moisture and flavor balance.

Is this cake good for the holidays?

Absolutely. This moist apple cake is one of the best holiday desserts because it pairs perfectly with festive meals and seasonal drinks.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per Slice – 12 servings)

Calories: 235
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 120mg
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 4g

Conclusion

This Apple Cinnamon Cake is the ultimate fall dessert recipe and one of the best options for anyone searching for easy holiday cakes, moist apple cake recipes, or healthy apple desserts. With its perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and tenderness, it is guaranteed to impress at family gatherings, holiday parties, or simple coffee breaks. Try this easy apple cake recipe today and enjoy the rich, homemade flavor of one of the best fall desserts you can bake.