Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Pinch of Yum on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr

Cost: $6.92 total, $0.87 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 0.75 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 0.5 tsp Baking Soda
  • 0.25 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (softened, cut into cubes)
  • 2 large Eggs (room temperature)
  • 0.5 cup Milk (whole or 2% works best)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 2 medium Apples (thinly sliced (about 2 cups), preferably a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (for topping)
  • 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter (for honey butter) (softened)
  • 2 tbsp Honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of an 8‑inch square baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 350°F

  2. Slice Apples

    Core the apples and slice them as thinly as possible (about 1‑2 mm). Set aside.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon until well combined.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Cream Butter & Sugar

    In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric whisk or hand whisk until creamy, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

    Time: PT4M

  5. Combine Wet & Dry

    Add the vanilla extract and milk to the butter mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Gradually fold in the dry‑ingredient mixture until a smooth batter forms. Do not over‑mix.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Fold in Apple Slices

    Gently fold the thin apple slices into the batter, distributing them evenly without crushing.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Add Cinnamon‑Sugar Topping

    In a small bowl combine 2 tbsp granulated sugar with 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter in the pan.

    Time: PT2M

  8. Bake the Cake

    Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25‑30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 350°F

  9. Cool & Prepare Honey Butter

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Meanwhile, combine the softened 0.25 cup butter with 2 tbsp honey in a small bowl; microwave 10‑15 seconds and stir until smooth.

    Time: PT10M

  10. Serve

    Slice the cake into squares, drizzle or spread with the melted honey butter, and enjoy warm with coffee.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
4 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
10 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Dairy, Eggs, Wheat

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

Recipe by Pinch of Yum

A quick, cozy fall snack cake packed with thinly sliced apples, a sweet cinnamon‑sugar crust, and a drizzle of melted honey butter. Perfect for an afternoon coffee on the couch.

EasyAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
39m
Prep
30m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 19m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.92
Total cost
$0.87
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Preheating the oven to the correct temperature ensures proper rise.
  • Creaming butter and sugar fully incorporates air for a light crumb.
  • Folding apple slices gently prevents the batter from becoming dense.
  • Baking until a clean toothpick emerges guarantees the cake is cooked through without over‑baking.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven and baking pan with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Honey butter can be very hot after microwaving; stir before spreading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake in American fall cuisine?

A

Apple cinnamon cakes have long been a staple of American autumn celebrations, reflecting the harvest of apples and the warming spice of cinnamon. They are often enjoyed with coffee or tea during cozy evenings, embodying the seasonal comfort food tradition.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of apple cinnamon cake in the United States?

A

In New England, the cake may include maple syrup and nutmeg, while in the Midwest it often features a streusel topping. Southern versions sometimes add a cream cheese glaze, but the core concept of apples and cinnamon remains consistent.

cultural
Q

How is Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake traditionally served in American households?

A

It is typically served warm, sliced into squares, and topped with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey butter. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot apple cider.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

The cake is popular during Thanksgiving, harvest festivals, and casual fall gatherings. It’s also a favorite for weekend brunches and afternoon tea with friends.

cultural
Q

What makes Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake special or unique in American dessert cuisine?

A

The combination of thinly sliced fresh apples folded into a tender cake batter, topped with a caramelized cinnamon‑sugar crust, and finished with honey butter creates a layered texture and flavor that is both comforting and slightly indulgent.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake at home?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, using thick apple slices that release excess moisture, and under‑baking which leaves a soggy center. Follow the critical steps for gentle folding and bake until a clean toothpick emerges.

technical
Q

Why does this Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake recipe use a thin apple slice fold instead of diced apples?

A

Thin slices distribute evenly throughout the batter, allowing each bite to have a delicate apple texture without creating large pockets of moisture that can make the cake dense.

technical
Q

Can I make Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, bake the cake a day ahead, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving, and keep the honey butter in a small jar at room temperature or refrigerated.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Apple Cinnamon Snack Cake is done?

A

The top should be golden‑brown with a slightly cracked cinnamon‑sugar crust, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake should spring back lightly when pressed.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Pinch of Yum specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Pinch of Yum, created by Lindsay and Bjork, specializes in approachable, flavorful home‑cooked recipes ranging from quick weeknight meals to comforting baked goods, often featuring clear step‑by‑step visuals and helpful cooking tips.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Pinch of Yum's approach to American comfort baking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Pinch of Yum focuses on simple ingredient lists, realistic home‑kitchen techniques, and detailed explanations of why each step matters, making classic comfort dishes like this apple cake accessible without requiring professional equipment or advanced skills.

channel

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