Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe

I absolutely love this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe because it combines the cozy flavors of fall into one moist, tender cake that’s surprisingly simple to make. There’s something magical about the way the apple cider reduction adds a deep, apple-rich note without making the cake soggy, and the cinnamon sugar topping gives the perfect sweet crunch that everyone will rave about.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how effortlessly it comes together — no fancy techniques, just wholesome ingredients that you probably already have. Whether you’re baking for a casual family get-together or a weekday treat, this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe hits that sweet spot between comforting and fancy enough to impress.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe uses a harmony of spices, apples, and natural sweeteners that perfectly blend to create a warm, inviting dessert. Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing moisture, flavor, and that delicate crumb we all crave.

• Apple cider: Reduce it down to concentrate the flavor and add moisture without weighing down the cake.
• Coconut oil: Using melted coconut oil gives a subtle richness and keeps the cake tender.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with sweet, aromatic notes.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients and helps with structure.
• Honey or maple syrup: Natural sweeteners that add depth and moisture; I love how each brings something unique.
• Apple butter: Adds intense apple flavor and extra moistness.
• All-purpose flour: The base that creates the cake’s tender crumb.
• Baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly.
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Apple or pumpkin pie spice: Warm spices that pair beautifully with apples.
• Honeycrisp apples: Thinly sliced for tender bites that stay flavorful.
• Cold salted butter: Grated to create the clumpy cinnamon sugar topping with bursts of buttery richness.
• Granulated sugar & cinnamon: For that irresistible crunchy cinnamon sugar topping we all love.

Variations

I love how versatile this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe is — it invites experimentation and makes it easy to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand. You can tweak the spices, sweeteners, or even the fruit to keep it fresh and exciting.

• Spice swaps: I’ve tried mixing cinnamon with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and it turns out fantastic every time.
• Fruit variations: Pear slices work beautifully if you want a gentler apple flavor or if apples aren’t in season.
• Sweetener alternatives: Using pure maple syrup gives an earthier sweetness; honey adds delicate floral notes — both are winners.
• Gluten-free: Substitute the flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but be sure to watch baking times closely as it can brown faster.

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by bringing 1 ½ cups of apple cider to a lively boil on high heat. This step is key — you’ll simmer it gently for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens to roughly half a cup. I learned this trick because fresh cider can be too watery for cakes, but concentrating it brings that pure apple flavor straight into the crumb. Just watch closely so you don’t burn it! Then, let the cider cool — this prevents scrambling the eggs when you mix your batter.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled reduced cider with melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, a large egg, honey or maple syrup, and apple butter. I like using a wooden spoon here to gently stir everything until it’s smooth and combined. This mixture forms the flavorful, moist base for your cake, so don’t rush it.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Apples

Next, sift together your flour, baking soda, kosher salt, and warm apple or pumpkin pie spice. Add them to the wet mix and stir until just combined – be careful not to overmix, or your cake could turn out tough. Now, gently fold in those thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples; they provide juicy pockets of sweetness and texture. The batter will be thick, almost like a dough, and that’s exactly how you want it.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping and Bake

Spread the thick batter evenly into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish — using parchment makes cleanup a breeze. Now for my favorite part: in a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and grated cold salted butter until clumpy and crumbly. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the batter; it melts and crisps while baking to create the cake’s signature crust. Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes until just set — a toothpick should come out clean or with moist crumbs, never wet batter.

Step 5: Serve It Warm

I always serve this cake warm with a dollop of honey butter or whipped cream. Trust me, that little touch makes all the difference between a good cake and a knockout. The lingering cinnamon and tender apples are a hug on a plate that’s perfect for afternoon coffee or dessert.

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I personally love topping slices with a smear of honey butter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Fresh whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon also works beautifully and keeps things light and airy.

Side Dishes

This apple cake pairs wonderfully with a mug of warm chai latte, black coffee, or even a simple cup of hot apple cider. For brunch, I like serving it alongside soft scrambled eggs or a creamy cheese plate for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I’ve arranged the cake squares on a rustic wooden board with some whole apple slices and cinnamon sticks to set the cozy vibe. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment tied with twine also makes for a charming gift or party favor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is warm, the fridge is fine, but bring the pieces back to room temp before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes pretty well! I slice it first, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. When I’m ready, I let them thaw on the counter and gently warm in the oven to revive that fresh-baked feeling.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I pop slices in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes — it crisps the cinnamon sugar topping back up and warms the cake through without drying it out. Microwave works too in a pinch, but I prefer the oven method for texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake Recipe quickly became one of my go-to fall treats because it’s so reliable and delicious. Every time I bake it, the smell fills the house with warmth and invites everyone to the kitchen. I hope you give it a try — I’m confident it’ll become a family favorite for you too, perfect with a cup of tea or as a simple homemade dessert packed with cozy flavors.

Print