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Cinnamon Apple Layer Cake recipe

Fluffy Cinnamon Apple Layer Cake with Creamy Frosting

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
A delightful cake combining the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples, layered with a creamy buttercream frosting.
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
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 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

Apple Filling

  • 2 cups chopped apples

Cinnamon Buttercream

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2-4 tbsp milk

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the cinnamon and vanilla extract. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.

Serving

  • Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cinnamon buttercream over the top. Place the second layer on top and spread buttercream over the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.

Storage

  • Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Do not overmix the batter. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Substitute apples with pears for a different flavor.
How to Serve: Serve with hot coffee or tea. Pairs well with chai latte or spiced apple cider.
Storage & Freshness: Keep at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for 5 days. Freeze for longer storage.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
Keyword apple cinnamon cake, Cinnamon Apple Layer Cake, cinnamon buttercream