Introduction
Cinnamon apples are a delightful treat that bring warmth and comfort to any gathering or family meal. This versatile recipe not only incorporates the tender sweetness of baked apples but also combines it with a moist cake base, making it perfect for dessert. The touch of cinnamon elevates the flavors, creating a nostalgic taste that evokes memories of cozy autumn days. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this cake is bound to become a cherished favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
CINNAMON APPLES:
600g/1.2 lb Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored (or any other type such as red, green, or golden) (approximately 4 large or 5 small to medium)
2 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
50g/3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp white sugar
DRY INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 cups flour, plain or all-purpose
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
WET INGREDIENTS:
4 tbsp/60g unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup oil (canola or vegetable)
2 large eggs, at room temperature (approximately 55g/1.95 oz each)
3/4 cup white sugar (caster or superfine is best but not essential)
2 tsp vanilla extract
GLAZE (OPTIONAL):
1 1/2 tbsp apricot jam (or other flavor)
1 tbsp water
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
This recipe elegantly combines the natural tartness of apples with the warm spice of cinnamon, ensuring a delightful dessert experience. Enjoy the process of baking and the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F. Prepare a 20cm/8″ springform pan by greasing it with butter and lining the bottom with baking paper (parchment paper).
Prepare Apples
Take 600g of Granny Smith apples (approximately 4 large or 5 small/medium). Peel and core the apples. Chop half of the apples into 1.25 cm (1/2″) cubes and slice the other half into 3mm (1/8″) thick slices. Place each type into separate bowls. Drizzle half of the melted butter (25g) and sprinkle half of the sugar (1 tbsp) and half of the cinnamon powder (1 1/4 tsp) over both bowls. Toss the apples in each bowl to coat evenly and set them aside.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of plain/all-purpose flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, and 1/2 tsp of salt until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 4 tbsp (60g) of melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of oil (canola or vegetable), 2 large eggs (ensure they are at room temperature), 3/4 cup of white sugar (preferably caster/superfine), and 2 tsp of vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are well combined.
Make the Batter
Pour the combined wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix gently with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until just combined, ensuring no dry flour remains.
Add Chopped Apples
Fold in the chopped apples carefully, just until they are evenly dispersed without losing the cinnamon coating.
Prepare for Baking
Transfer the batter mixture into the prepared springform pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Lay the sliced apples on top in a circular pattern, overlapping each slice slightly (by about 1/4), to create an even decoration.
Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a skewer into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. If baking extends beyond 50 minutes, cover the cake loosely with foil to prevent the apples from burning.
Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a rack for a few minutes. Release the sides of the springform pan carefully.
Prepare Glaze (Optional)
To make the glaze, combine 1.5 tbsp of apricot jam with 1 tbsp of water in a small bowl. Microwave for about 20 seconds to warm, then stir until smooth.
Apply Glaze
Using a brush, glaze the surface of the apples on the cake with the warmed glaze.
Serve the Cake
Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing with a sharp knife. It is best served slightly warm in the middle for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
Apples
This recipe is versatile and can use any type of apple, though tart varieties like Granny Smith, Gala, or Honey Crisp are preferred for their flavor and baking qualities.
Eggs
Ensure the eggs are not cold from the fridge to avoid thickening the batter. If needed, submerge the eggs in warm water for about 10 minutes to bring them to room temperature.
Checking Doneness
Use the skewer test to check if the cake is done, noting that juicier apples can add more moisture to the batter, potentially requiring an additional 5 to 10 minutes of baking time.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is rich and moist on its own. However, if desired, serve with vanilla ice cream, which pairs well with the flavors.
Storage
This cake maintains its quality for up to four days, becoming even more pudding-like around the apples. Store it in the fridge in warm weather but serve at room temperature for the best experience.
Measures in Different Countries
This recipe is forgiving with measurements. You can mix different cup measurements and still achieve good results due to the ingredient ratios.
Oven Types
This recipe can be made using either standard or fan-forced ovens at the same temperature, as the dense batter and apple topping affect the baking time.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly.
Preparing the Cake Pan
Grease a 20cm/8″ springform pan with butter and line it with baking paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
Chopping and Slicing Apples
Chop half the apples into 1.25 cm pieces and slice the other half into 3mm thick slices to create texture in the cake.
Coating Apples
Toss the chopped and sliced apples separately with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon to enhance their flavor before adding to the batter.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients in the order listed to ensure proper emulsification.
Incorporating Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Adding Apples to Batter
Gently fold in the chopped apples to maintain the integrity of the cinnamon coating.
Arranging Sliced Apples
Layer the sliced apples on top of the batter in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping them to create an aesthetically pleasing design.
Baking the Cake
Bake for 50 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil if needed to prevent burning.
Cooling the Cake
Let the cake cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before removing it from the springform pan and slicing.
Glazing the Cake
Heat the apricot jam and water in a small bowl and brush it over the top of the apples for a shiny finish.
FAQ
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of apples. Tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for their flavor and baking qualities.
What should I do if my eggs are cold?
If your eggs are fridge cold, submerge them in warm water for about 10 minutes to bring them to room temperature.
How do I check if the cake is done?
Insert a skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done. Adjust baking time if necessary.
How should I store the leftover cake?
Store the cake in the fridge if it is hot outside, but serve it at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use different measurement systems for the ingredients?
Yes, this recipe is forgiving. You can mix US and Aussie cup measures, and it should still work out fine.
Is this cake good if made in advance?
Yes, this cake tastes just as good after a few days and can get slightly “pudding-like” around the apples, enhancing the flavor.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Apple Cake is a delightful treat, bringing together the sweet and tart flavors of apples with warm cinnamon notes. Its moist texture and appealing appearance make it a perfect dessert for gatherings or a cozy family meal. The cake remains delicious even days after baking, proving to be a hassle-free option for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cinnamon Pear Cake
Swap out apples for ripe pears for a fruity twist, combining their soft sweetness with cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
Apple Walnut Cake
Add chopped walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the soft apples and warm spices.
Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake
Incorporate a layer of caramelized apples on the bottom of the cake for a rich and indulgent dessert experience.
Spiced Apple Muffins
Turn the recipe into muffins, adjusting baking times, to create portable, spiced apple treats perfect for breakfasts or snacks.
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Add a streusel topping with extra cinnamon and nuts for a coffee cake variant that pairs well with morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Gluten-Free Apple Cake
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to cater to those with gluten sensitivities while maintaining the cake’s moistness and flavor.
