Moist and Flavorful Apple Cake with a Cinnamon Sugar Crust and Simple Icing

This Apple Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with chunks of fresh apples and infused with cinnamon and vanilla, this cake is both comforting and flavorful. The soft, buttery cake pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart apples, and the optional cinnamon sugar crust adds a delightful crunch. Top it off with a simple icing for an extra layer of sweetness, and you’ve got a dessert that’s sure to please everyone. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this cake is a hit with all who try it.

Why You’ll Love This:

You’ll love this Apple Cake for its moist texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The combination of fresh apples, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist. The cake is easy to make, and the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. The optional icing adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors of the cake. This recipe is a great way to use up extra apples and is sure to become a family favorite.

Perfect Occasion:

This Apple Cake is ideal for any time of year, but it’s especially perfect during the fall when apples are in season. It’s great for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a simple dessert after dinner. The cake is also a wonderful addition to a brunch spread or afternoon tea. Its rustic appearance and comforting flavors make it a great choice for casual get-togethers or as a homemade gift for friends and loved ones.

Decoration Tips:

For an extra touch of elegance, you can dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. If you prefer a more rustic look, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the top before baking to create a crunchy, caramelized crust. If you’re adding the icing, drizzle it in a zigzag pattern across the top of the cooled cake for a simple yet attractive finish. Serve the cake on a pretty cake stand or a rustic wooden board to complement its homey appeal.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 medium apples (such as Pink Lady, or your preferred variety)
• 140 g butter, at room temperature
• 200 g sugar (brown sugar works well too)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch of salt
• 300 g all-purpose flour
• 180 ml milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

For the Icing:

• 90 g powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel and cut the apples into small cubes. If you prefer, you can leave the skins on for added texture. Set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 22 x 22 cm baking pan.
3. Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter with the sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the cinnamon.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, alternating with the milk, and mix until you have a smooth batter. Finally, fold in the baking powder and then gently stir in the diced apples.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. If you’re not making the icing, sprinkle a little sugar and cinnamon over the top before baking to create a sweet, crunchy crust. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Icing: If you’re making the icing, mix the powdered sugar with the milk until smooth. Once the cake has cooled slightly or completely, drizzle the icing over the top.

Enjoy!