If you’re looking for a cozy, irresistibly moist dessert to brighten up your day, this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe is just what you need. Packed with tender crumb, warm cinnamon flavor, and juicy apple pie filling, it’s like autumn baked into a cake, yet so easy to whip up any time of year. The perfect blend of sweet and spice creates a comforting treat that will have everyone asking for seconds, whether it’s for a casual family gathering or a weekend indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, essential ingredients is the first step to making this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe truly shine. Each item plays a crucial role, from the fluffy white cake base providing structure, to the cinnamon that lifts the flavor, and the luscious apple pie filling adding bursts of fruitiness and moisture.
- White cake mix (1 package, 2 layer): A convenient base that guarantees a light, tender crumb every time.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses the cake with that classic warm, spicy aroma you expect in an apple dessert.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds richness and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
- Eggs (3): Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps create the perfect batter consistency.
- Apple pie filling (21 oz can): The star of the show, lending sweet, tender apple chunks that complement the cinnamon beautifully.
- Confectioners’ sugar (for glaze): Adds sweetness and a pretty finish to the cake.
- Milk (for glaze): Used to thin the confectioners’ sugar into a smooth drizzle.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan, making clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Batter
In a large bowl, mix the white cake mix, cinnamon, sour cream, eggs, and water until the batter is smooth and well incorporated. This mixture is the foundation of your Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe, promising a tender and flavorful crumb.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake Base
Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. A smooth, even layer bakes more uniformly, setting the stage for the apple topping.
Step 4: Add the Apple Pie Filling
Spoon the apple pie filling over the entire surface of the batter. Don’t be shy—cover it generously! These juicy apple pieces will mingle with the cake as it bakes, creating a luscious texture contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the cake in the oven for about 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The delightful aroma of cinnamon and baked apples will likely have you peeking in early!
Step 6: Cool Completely
Once out of the oven, let your cake cool in the baking dish completely. Cooling is key for the glaze to set nicely and to slice the cake cleanly without crumbling.
Step 7: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar with just enough milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled cake for a sweet finishing touch that adds a subtle shine and extra flavor.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice, serve, and watch this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe disappear fast. It’s comfort food at its best, combining simplicity with spectacular flavors.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of extra confectioners’ sugar just before serving to elevate the presentation and add a bit more warmth to every bite. Fresh apple slices on the side can also reinforce that lovely fruit theme.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, giving an indulgent creaminess that balances the cinnamon and apple flavors perfectly. For a more grown-up twist, a drizzle of caramel sauce is pure magic.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving slices on rustic wooden boards for a homestyle vibe, or cut the cake into small squares for finger-friendly dessert trays at parties. You can also layer it with whipped cream and fresh apples for a layered trifle variation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its moistness. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is safe but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature to enjoy as if freshly baked.
Reheating
To warm up slices, pop them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a low-temperature oven. The gentle heat brings back that freshly baked sensation and makes the glaze shine again.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! A homemade white cake batter will work just as well, just be sure your batter isn’t too dense so the apple topping can meld beautifully during baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free white cake mix to make this Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive folks. Be sure the apple pie filling is also gluten-free to avoid any surprises.
Can I substitute the apple pie filling with fresh apples?
Yes! Dice fresh apples and toss them with some sugar and cinnamon before layering. Keep in mind the texture will be a bit different, and you might want to add a bit of cornstarch to thicken the juices while baking.
What’s the best way to cut this cake without it falling apart?
Make sure the cake is completely cooled and the glaze is set. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat slices every time.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, while raisins bring extra sweetness and chewiness. Fold them into the batter before baking or sprinkle on top of the apple filling.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe is a delightful blend of simple ingredients and heavenly flavors that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing it with family or treating yourself, each bite offers that perfect balance of cozy spice and sweet apple goodness. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and rewarding baking this cake can be!
Print
Cinnamon Apple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring a tender white cake base enhanced with warm cinnamon and topped with sweet apple pie filling. Finished with a delicate glaze, it’s perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 package of white cake mix (2 layer)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup water
Topping
- 1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling
Glaze
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, ground cinnamon, sour cream, eggs, and water. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour Batter: Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the greased baking dish, spreading it out to the edges.
- Add Apple Topping: Spoon the entire can of apple pie filling over the batter, distributing it evenly to cover the surface.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. The cake is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely within the baking dish to set properly.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until a smooth, drizzling consistency is achieved.
- Drizzle Glaze: Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top for added sweetness and decoration.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 portions, serve, and enjoy this delicious cinnamon apple treat!
Notes
- You can substitute the white cake mix with yellow or spice cake mix for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk slightly.
- Make sure the cake cools completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
