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apple cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting recipe

Apple Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
A deliciously moist apple cake topped with creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting, perfect for fall gatherings and everyday indulgence.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk

Fruits

  • 2 cups chopped apples Granny Smith and Honeycrisp

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the chopped apples gently to distribute them evenly.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Mix in the cinnamon and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the frosting is light and fluffy.
  • Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Use a spatula to create decorative swirls on the frosting if desired.

Serving and Storage

  • Cut the cake into slices and serve it as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Enjoy your delicious apple cake with friends and family.
  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze as needed.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh, crisp apples for best results. Ingredient Substitutions: Try using whole wheat flour for a healthier option. How to Serve: Best served with a cup of tea or coffee. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the cake a day in advance for enhanced flavors.
Keyword Apple cake, cinnamon cream cheese frosting, fall dessert