This Easy Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake is the perfect dessert for fall. The combination of juicy apples and warm cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love. Each slice is moist, soft, and packed with the comforting flavors of the season. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just because, this cake is sure to be a hit! It’s simple to make yet looks so impressive when served, making it the ultimate dessert for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Full recipes:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 cups sugar
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2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 large eggs
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1 cup applesauce
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith)
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1/4 cup milk
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1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
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1 tablespoon butter (for topping)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In another bowl, beat together softened butter, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
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Gently fold in the chopped apples and milk.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top evenly.
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For the topping: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
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Dot with small pieces of butter.
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Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes | Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Kcal: 275 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
The Perfect Fall Dessert: Easy Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake
Apple cinnamon sheet cake is one of the best desserts to make during the fall season, and for good reason. With the warm flavors of cinnamon paired with the sweetness of fresh apples, this cake embodies the cozy, comforting essence of autumn. Not only is this cake a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a go-to dessert for novice and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just a regular fall day, this easy apple cinnamon sheet cake will surely impress.
Why Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake Is Perfect for Fall
As soon as the leaves start changing and the crisp air sets in, we begin to crave the flavors of fall: cinnamon, apples, nutmeg, and cloves. Apple cinnamon sheet cake combines two of the most iconic fall ingredients: apples and cinnamon. These flavors instantly evoke feelings of comfort and warmth, which is why this cake has become such a beloved seasonal treat.
The beauty of apple cinnamon sheet cake lies not only in its taste but also in how easily it captures the essence of fall with minimal effort. Unlike many other complicated desserts, this sheet cake is straightforward to make with just a few ingredients and simple instructions. The apples provide moisture, while the cinnamon adds a spiced warmth that is undeniably comforting.
This cake’s simplicity makes it approachable for everyone. Whether you are an experienced baker or someone just starting out, this dessert can be whipped up quickly without any stress. The warm scent of cinnamon and apples will fill your kitchen as it bakes, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy weekends at home.
The Benefits of Using Apples in Baking
In addition to their incredible flavor, apples are a great addition to many baked goods for several reasons. Apples are naturally high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which make them a nutritious component of any dessert. The fiber found in apples helps promote digestive health, and antioxidants can help protect the body from harmful free radicals.
When baked into the cake, apples contribute both moisture and a subtle sweetness that complements the spiciness of the cinnamon. The apples break down slightly during baking, allowing their flavor to infuse into the cake. Their natural sugars help balance the cake’s sweetness without it feeling too sugary, making this dessert a delicious, yet not overly indulgent, choice.
What Makes This Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake Recipe Special?
This easy apple cinnamon sheet cake recipe is special for several reasons. First, it uses fresh apples rather than applesauce or other artificial apple flavors, which ensures that you get the best taste and texture possible. The apples, when mixed into the cake batter, bake to perfection, giving the cake its moist, tender crumb. This cake also contains the perfect amount of cinnamon, providing a balanced flavor profile that’s not overwhelming.
Additionally, the simple ingredients and minimal prep time make it a go-to recipe for busy home bakers. It’s made in a 9×13-inch baking pan, which means there’s no need to fuss with intricate cake layers or complicated frosting techniques. Once it’s out of the oven, all that’s left to do is slice and serve.
An Easy Dessert for Every Occasion
One of the most attractive aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you are preparing it for a holiday gathering, a birthday, or just a cozy family dinner, this easy apple cinnamon sheet cake will be well received. You can enjoy it as it is or top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch.
If you’re feeling creative, feel free to customize the cake with your favorite variations. You can experiment by adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for an added crunch. Or, for a touch of tanginess, stir in some dried cranberries or raisins. This recipe also makes for excellent leftovers and can be enjoyed for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea.
Simple Ingredients for Big Flavor
The beauty of this cake is that it uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients that are often readily available. Flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, butter, eggs, and apples come together in a harmonious blend, creating the perfect cake that’s both light and rich at the same time.
Unlike other cakes that require special equipment or ingredients that may be difficult to find, this apple cinnamon sheet cake can be made with ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. This makes it an ideal recipe for beginners, people on a tight schedule, or anyone who simply enjoys simple yet delicious homemade desserts.
How to Make This Cake Your Own
While this easy apple cinnamon sheet cake is perfect as is, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. Here are some ideas for how you can make this cake even more special:
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Add a Streusel Topping: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider topping the cake with a cinnamon-sugar streusel before baking. The sweet, crunchy topping will pair beautifully with the soft, moist cake beneath.
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Substitute Apples with Other Fruits: If you want to experiment with other fruits, try substituting the apples with pears or a mix of berries. This will change the flavor profile but still keep the cake moist and delicious.
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Incorporate a Frosting or Glaze: If you’re looking for a more decadent touch, top the cake with a simple cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of glaze made with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
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Spices and Flavorings: Don’t be afraid to mix things up by adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to the batter for added depth and warmth. You could also try using brown sugar instead of white for a more caramelized flavor.
Perfect for Beginner Bakers
For anyone who is just starting out in the kitchen, this easy apple cinnamon sheet cake is an excellent choice. It’s a forgiving recipe that allows for little room for error, making it ideal for beginners. The instructions are clear and simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. Even if you’ve never baked a cake before, you’ll be able to create a beautiful dessert that’s both delicious and satisfying.
This recipe provides a fantastic introduction to cake-baking, as it doesn’t require any intricate techniques or special tools. All you need is a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a 9×13-inch baking pan. The simplicity of the recipe means that you can focus on mastering the basics without getting overwhelmed, while still producing a result that’s sure to impress.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Cake
This easy apple cinnamon sheet cake is the perfect dessert for fall, combining delicious, wholesome ingredients with minimal effort. It’s versatile, customizable, and an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it at a holiday dinner, a casual family gathering, or just as a cozy treat for yourself, this cake is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. So, get your apples ready and start baking—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can turn into something so flavorful and comforting.
This cake is a must-try for any fall dessert lover. It’s simple to make, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to create lasting memories at any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, this easy apple cinnamon sheet cake is sure to bring joy to your table.