Apple and cinnamon cake – Page 2

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples:

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks. If you like a more textured cake, leave the chunks larger; if you prefer a smoother texture, dice them smaller.
Set the chopped apples aside. You can toss them in a small bit of flour (about 1 tablespoon) to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake as it bakes.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan (or a square pan, if you prefer) with butter or non-stick spray. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this aside to be added later.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer or stand mixer. The mixture should appear pale and smooth.

5. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.

6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream (or yogurt). Start with a portion of the dry mixture, then add some of the sour cream. Repeat until everything is incorporated. Mix gently until the batter is smooth.
Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.

7. Fold in the Apples:

Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter using a spatula. The apples should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.

8. Bake the Cake:

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
While the cake is baking, you can prepare an optional topping. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. After 20 minutes of baking, sprinkle this mixture over the top of the cake for a sweet, caramelized finish.

9. Cool and Serve:

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, you can dust the top with a little powdered sugar or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and a beautiful finish.

Tips for the Best Apple and Cinnamon Cake:

Choose the Right Apples: The best apples for baking are firm, tart apples that hold their shape when baked. Granny Smith apples are a classic choice, but Honeycrisp or Gala apples work beautifully too.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Add Nuts or Raisins: For added texture and flavor, you can fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins along with the apples.
Serve Warm: This cake is delicious on its own, but it’s especially delightful when served slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Variations to Try:

Cinnamon Streusel Topping: For a crunchy, sweet topping, you can make a simple streusel by combining 1/4 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of cold butter. Mix until crumbly and sprinkle over the batter before baking.
Caramel Apple Version: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top of the cake after it has cooled slightly. This will add a rich, indulgent flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples and cinnamon.
Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Cake: If you need a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the other ingredients (such as baking powder and soda) are also gluten-free.
Spicy Apple Cake: If you love the flavor of spices, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the batter for a spicier, more complex flavor profile.

How to Serve:

As a Dessert: Serve this cake as a comforting dessert at the end of a meal. It’s perfect with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a glass of apple cider.
For Breakfast or Brunch: This apple and cinnamon cake makes a delightful addition to a cozy brunch or as a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee.
For Afternoon Snacking: Pack a slice for an afternoon snack, or serve it alongside some whipped cream or yogurt for a light treat.

Conclusion: A Slice of Fall in Every Bite

This Apple and Cinnamon Cake is the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and comforting flavors, making it an ideal treat for the fall season or any time of year when you’re craving something cozy and delicious. It’s easy to make, beautifully fragrant, and sure to become a family favorite.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something warm and flavorful, grab some apples, spice up your kitchen with cinnamon, and enjoy a slice of this delightful cake that brings the essence of autumn straight to your table. Happy baking!

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