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Cinnamon sugar apple cake slice with Honeycrisp apples and crumb topping on a plate

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake with Honeycrisp Apples Recipe

Cinnamon sugar apple cake is a tender, moist dessert with sweet apples and a buttery cinnamon sugar topping. This easy apple cake is a comforting choice for gatherings or whenever you want a simple homemade treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Batter
  • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup buttermilk or (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon white vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 1/2 cups chopped Honeycrisp apples (see notes)
Topping
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the ingredients in the listed order, mixing or whisking just until the batter comes together. Fold in the chopped apples.
  2. Transfer the batter into a buttered 9×13 pan, or prepare the pan with parchment paper instead.
Topping
  1. Mix the sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter with a fork until evenly combined. Break apart any larger pieces so the mixture has a damp sand texture.
  2. Scatter the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top of the apple cake.
Baking
  1. Bake for 45 minutes. Check the center with a toothpick if needed to confirm the cake is finished.
Serving
  1. Serve the apple cake with honey butter or whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Apples: Two average-sized apples provide about 2 cups of cut apples. Honeycrisp apples are preferred for their crisp texture and sweetness, but other apple varieties can also work. For cuts and textures, refer to the photos and notes in the post. Types of Oil: Canola or vegetable oil are commonly used, while olive oil adds a distinct flavor to the baked cake. An equal amount of coconut oil or butter may also work. Honey Butter: Combine 2-3 tablespoons softened butter with 2-3 tablespoons honey. Add a sprinkle of sea salt if desired.