Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

I absolutely love this Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe because it hits the perfect balance of cozy spices, tender cake, and tangy-sweet frosting that everyone raves about. There’s just something about the combination of fresh apples baked right into the cake paired with that creamy, cinnamon-spiced frosting that makes it feel like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a casual weekend treat, this recipe always steals the spotlight on my dessert table.

When I first tried this recipe, I wasn’t sure if adding the frosting on top would be too sweet, but it turns out the cinnamon cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of richness without overpowering the delicate apple flavor. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to put together, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and those new to cake making. You’ll find that this Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a guaranteed win whenever you want a dessert that’s comforting and special.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that combine to deliver classic flavors with a twist. Fresh apples provide natural sweetness and moisture, while cinnamon adds that comforting spice that instantly feels like home.

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cake with a nice crumb structure.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise for that light, fluffy texture.
• Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• Cinnamon: Adds warm spice to the batter and frosting alike.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake super moist and tender.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with the cake’s texture.
• Brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel depth that pairs beautifully with apples.
• Eggs: Bind everything together, giving structure.
• Vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor in both cake and frosting.
• Apples: Fresh and chopped, they add juiciness and texture.
• Cream cheese: The star of the frosting for that creamy tang.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• Half and half or heavy cream: Adjusts frosting texture smoothly without watering it down.

Variations

I love to switch this Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe up every now and then—it keeps things fresh and lets you tailor it just how you like it. You can easily add your own spin with different nuts, spices, or even swap apples for other fruits. Don’t be shy about experimenting!

• Add nuts: I often toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch that contrasts the soft cake.
• Use different apples: Try granny smith for tartness or Fuji for extra sweetness—each variety changes the flavor profile.
• Spice it up: A pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger mixed with cinnamon amps up the warmth and complexity.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, just watch for texture tweaks.

How to Make Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining your 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper—it makes lifting the cake out a breeze later. Then whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until they’re fully combined; this step ensures your spices and leaveners are evenly distributed for a perfectly textured cake.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Incorporate Apples

In a separate big bowl, whisk the oil with both sugars until smooth. Beat in the eggs and vanilla one at a time until well blended. Next, stir the dry ingredients into the wet just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender. Finally, gently fold in the chopped apples; their juice will keep the cake moist and packed with flavor.

Step 3: Bake and Cool the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting—this is key because warm cake can melt your frosting and get messy.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Using a mixer, blend the softened cream cheese and butter with vanilla and cinnamon until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Pour in half and half slowly until you reach a spreadable, but still thick, frosting consistency. Taste and adjust cinnamon according to your preference—it always makes it extra cozy!

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled apple cake using a spatula or butter knife. For a finished touch, you can sprinkle extra cinnamon or finely chopped toasted nuts on top. Slice into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this cake with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts for extra crunch and visual appeal. Sometimes, a drizzle of pure maple syrup on top amps the sweetness and complements the apple’s tartness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or a simple black coffee to balance the sweetness. For a brunch spread, I like serving it alongside vanilla yogurt and fresh fruit to refresh the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special occasions, I sometimes serve this cake in individual ramekins layered with extra cinnamon cream cheese frosting and a dollop of whipped cream on top. It makes for an elegant dessert that looks impressive but is so easy to throw together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover apple cake covered tightly in an airtight container in the fridge, which helps maintain its moisture and prevents the frosting from drying out. It usually stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this cake before by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil after it’s fully frosted and cooled. When thawed overnight in the fridge, it tastes almost as fresh as when first baked, which is a lifesaver for busy weeks.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, I gently microwave a single slice for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting completely. It’s cozy and comforting this way, especially on chilly days.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When it comes down to it, this Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s just so reliably delicious and easy to make. Every bite is a cozy blend of tender cake, warm spices, and luscious frosting that reminds me of family gatherings and happy moments. I truly hope you’ll give it a try—you might just find it becomes your go-to cake for every season and celebration, just like it is for me.

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