There’s something magical about the combination of apples and cinnamon. The warm spice, the sweet fruit, and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes—it’s pure coziness in cake form. This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a rustic, old-fashioned dessert that celebrates simple ingredients and bold flavors. It’s tender, moist, and filled with chunks of apple and crunchy walnuts, making it a perfect cake for fall gatherings, afternoon coffee, or even as a sweet breakfast treat.
Unlike frosted cakes that require layers and decoration, this apple cake is humble and unfussy, yet incredibly delicious. It comes together in a single bowl with pantry staples you probably already have on hand. What makes it stand out is its deep flavor—the rich caramel-like sweetness of dark brown sugar, the warmth of cinnamon, and the fresh juiciness of apples all baked into a moist crumb that stays soft for days.
Whether you’re baking for your family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or looking for a dessert that’s equal parts comforting and impressive, this apple cake will hit the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Cake
One-bowl recipe – No complicated steps or multiple dishes to wash.
Moist and flavorful – Thanks to apples, oil, and brown sugar, every bite is tender and rich.
Perfectly spiced – Cinnamon ties the flavors together beautifully.
Rustic charm – No frosting needed; just slice and enjoy.
Crowd-friendly – Serves 8–10, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 large apple, peeled and chopped
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup dark brown sugar
½ cup granulated white sugar
½ cup walnuts, chopped
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the cinnamon, both sugars, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Mix until the batter is smooth and no streaks of flour remain.
Step 4: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped apple and walnuts. The apples provide moisture and sweetness, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
