This Walnut-Apple Cinnamon Swirl Cake is the ultimate autumn treat. Featuring a soft, tender cake packed with juicy apples and crunchy walnuts, it’s elevated with a buttery cinnamon swirl and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet, spiced, and creamy, perfect for cozy fall afternoons or holiday gatherings. The cake is simple to make, but its rich flavors and textures make it feel indulgent and special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is all about comfort and flavor. The moist, apple-filled cake is complemented by the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of walnuts, while the cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of sweetness and richness. The cinnamon swirl adds depth and visual appeal, making every bite deliciously layered. Whether you're a fan of classic fall flavors or just love a good, easy-to-make cake, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Perfect Occasion
This cake is perfect for any fall occasion, from casual weekend baking to festive holiday dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or potlucks, and its rustic charm makes it great for serving at brunch or afternoon tea. The combination of apples, cinnamon, and cream cheese frosting gives this cake the ideal flavors for autumn, but it’s a treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Decoration Tips
For an added decorative touch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon over the cream cheese frosting. You can also drizzle caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence or garnish with thin apple slices for a beautiful presentation. If you prefer a more rustic look, simply spread the frosting with a spatula and let the swirls speak for themselves.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 90g butter, melted
- 2 small apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 100g walnuts, roughly chopped
- 280g all-purpose flour
- 1 pack of baking powder (about 10-12g)
- 240ml whole milk (3.5%)
- 2 eggs (size M-L)
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar
- 90g sugar
For the Cinnamon Butter Swirl:
- 60g butter, melted
- 120g brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 50g very soft butter
- 110g cream cheese
- 90g powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a small rectangular or square baking tin (about 22-25 cm) with baking paper. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, baking powder, milk, eggs, vanilla sugar, and regular sugar. Mix until smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the surface. - Make the Cinnamon Butter Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour this mixture over the cake batter, then use a fork to gently swirl it through the batter, creating a marbled effect. - Bake the Cake:
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. - Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the cake is cooling, mix the very soft butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar in a bowl until smooth and creamy. - Frost the Cake:
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the slightly warm cake, smoothing it out evenly. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. - Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the cake into squares or slices and enjoy the comforting flavors of apple, walnut, cinnamon, and creamy frosting.
Enjoy!
This Walnut-Apple Cinnamon Swirl Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect blend of warm, spiced flavors and rich, creamy textures, making it a delicious dessert for any occasion.