Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake
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There’s Something Special About Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake
Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake is one of those incredible recipes that wraps you in warmth with each bite. It’s a sensational blend of fresh apples and fragrant cinnamon, baked to perfection in a moist, tender loaf. On a crisp autumn day, this cake becomes an irresistible treat, whether you’re enjoying it at brunch with friends, as an afternoon snack, or even as a sweet ending to a cozy dinner. What makes this recipe special? It’s simple to pull together, uses pantry staples, and fills your home with the delightful scent of baking apples and spices.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Why bother with store-bought cakes when you can whip up this delightful Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake at home? This recipe is:
- Quick and Easy: In under two hours, you can have a homemade loaf fresh out of the oven, making it perfect for weeknight baking sessions or last-minute gatherings.
- Budget-Friendly: With ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this recipe won’t break the bank.
- Kid-Approved: The sweet, warm flavors are sure to have your little ones asking for seconds, creating perfect family moments around the table.
“This loaf cake is a game changer! Super moist and so flavorful. It’s a hit with my family every time I make it!” – Emily R.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making this Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake is straightforward and fun! Here’s a step-by-step overview:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather everything you need before you start to keep the process smooth.
- Mix the Batter: You’ll be combining wet and dry ingredients to create a luscious, flavorful batter.
- Add Apples: Toss in cinnamon-dusted apples for that necessary crunch and flavor.
- Crumble Topping: Don’t skip this! A delicious crumble on top adds a beautiful texture.
- Bake: Pop it in the oven and let the aroma of cinnamon and apples fill your kitchen.
- Glaze: Finish it off with a maple glaze for an extra layer of sweetness.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large or 2 small apples (diced + 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Pro Tip: For a dairy-free option, substitute almond milk for buttermilk and coconut oil for butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat Things Up: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and grease it with cooking spray.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar and room temperature butter until creamy and fluffy, about one minute.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the mixture, mixing until everything is well combined.
Combine: Gradually fold in the flour mixture in two parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Remember, do not overmix!
Make the Crumble: In a different bowl, mix together melted butter, light brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the flour and mix with a fork until crumbly.
Prepare Apples: Toss diced apples with additional cinnamon and mix one-third into the batter.
Layer the Batter: Pour half the batter into your prepared pan, layer in another third of the apple mixture, top with the remaining batter, then finish with the last third of apples and the crumble topping.
Bake: Slide it into your preheated oven and bake for 60-80 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. If the top gets too dark, lightly cover it with foil.
Cool Down: Let the loaf cool for about 15 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a cooling rack.
Glaze It Up: Whisk your glaze ingredients together and drizzle it over the cooled loaf for that final touch.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake is truly versatile! Enjoy it warm with a pat of butter, or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a warm chai tea for a cozy afternoon snack. You can even dress it up with whipped cream for dessert.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your cake fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze it for up to two months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Tricks for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf; mix just until combined.
- Test for Doneness: Stick a toothpick in the center to check if it’s done. It should come out mostly clean.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment! Try adding chopped nuts for a crunchy element or mixing in raisins for extra sweetness. You could even switch out the apples for pears or try it with a carrot-cake twist! The possibilities are endless.
common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Total time is about 75-90 minutes, including baking and cooling.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to two months. Thaw it before serving.
Get ready to warm your kitchen and delight your taste buds with this delectable Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake!
Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and grease it with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar and room temperature butter until creamy and fluffy, about one minute.
- Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the mixture, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Gradually fold in the flour mixture in two parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Remember, do not overmix!
- In a different bowl, mix together melted butter, light brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon for the crumble. Add the flour and mix with a fork until crumbly.
- Toss diced apples with additional cinnamon and mix one-third into the batter.
- Pour half the batter into your prepared pan, layer in another third of the apple mixture, top with the remaining batter, then finish with the last third of apples and the crumble topping.
- Slide it into your preheated oven and bake for 60-80 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. If the top gets too dark, lightly cover it with foil.
- Let the loaf cool for about 15 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a cooling rack.
- Whisk your glaze ingredients together and drizzle it over the cooled loaf for that final touch.
