**Introduction:**
Apple and cinnamon cake is a warm, comforting dessert that celebrates the classic pairing of tart apples and fragrant cinnamon. This cake is soft, moist, and infused with the flavors of fall, making it perfect for gatherings, tea time, or an afternoon treat. The aroma of apples and cinnamon baking fills the home, making it an inviting treat that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.
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**Origin and Cultural Significance:**
Apple cakes are enjoyed in many cultures worldwide, often signifying the start of autumn or the harvest season. Apples have been cultivated for thousands of years, and cinnamon, once a prized spice, has been used in baking for centuries. Apple and cinnamon cake combines these two beloved ingredients, creating a simple yet delightful dessert that is popular in North America and Europe, especially during fall and winter when apples are plentiful. This cake is often associated with homey, comforting flavors and family gatherings.
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**Ingredients and Quantities:**
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
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**Optional Additions:**
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth
– A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
– A sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar on top for a sweet crust
– 1/4 cup applesauce for extra moisture
– Cream cheese frosting or caramel drizzle as a topping
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**Tips for Success:**
– **Use Fresh, Crisp Apples:** Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala hold their shape and add a tart-sweet flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
– **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** To keep the cake tender, mix the batter until just combined once you add the dry ingredients.
– **Test with a Toothpick:** Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
– **Let it Cool Before Slicing:** Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes after baking to help the flavors settle.
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**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
2. **Prepare the Batter:**
– In a medium bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix:**
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
4. **Fold in the Apples:**
– Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
5. **Bake:**
– Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
– Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. **Cool and Serve:**
– Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm, or let it cool completely before serving.
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**Description:**
This apple and cinnamon cake is soft, moist, and fragrant, with juicy bites of apple throughout. The cinnamon enhances the sweetness of the apples, creating a cake that’s cozy, flavorful, and perfect for fall. Each slice offers a tender crumb and warm, spiced aroma, making it an ideal treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
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**Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Servings):**
– Calories: ~180
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 28g
– Sugars: 18g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 1g
*Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.*
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**Conclusion and Recommendation:**
This apple and cinnamon cake is a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dessert that’s great for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home. The tender cake and fragrant apples make this a recipe that’s sure to be loved by anyone who tries it.
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**Embracing Healthful Indulgence:**
For a healthier version, consider substituting some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar slightly, or replace part of it with honey or maple syrup. Using applesauce as a partial butter substitute can add moisture while reducing fat. With these small tweaks, you can enjoy this delightful apple and cinnamon cake as a wholesome, balanced treat.
This apple and cinnamon cake is a classic that’s perfect for indulging in the cozy flavors of fall—give it a try!