There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when apples and cinnamon meet in the oven. It’s the smell that draws everyone into the kitchen, the comforting taste that instantly feels like home, and the kind of recipe you end up making on repeat because it fits any occasion. Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake is tender, perfectly spiced, and topped with a sweet glaze that takes it from simple to bakery-worthy. It’s not just a cake—it’s a memory waiting to happen.
Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake is one of those recipes I hold close to my heart because it reminds me of cozy fall afternoons, when the leaves outside were just turning golden and the kitchen smelled like apples baking. But the truth is, it’s far too good to save only for fall. I find myself baking it all year long—sometimes as a casual weekend treat, sometimes as a holiday centerpiece, and often just because I have a couple of apples on the counter begging to be used.
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Why You’ll Love This Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake
There are so many reasons this cake earns a permanent spot in my recipe box. First, it’s simple. You don’t need fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few pantry staples, a couple of apples, and a little time, and you’ll have a cake that tastes like it came from a bakery.
Second, it’s versatile. Want to serve it at a family dinner? It’s perfect. Looking for something to bring to a potluck? This cake travels like a dream. Need a cozy afternoon snack? It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. I’ve even had friends tell me they slice it for breakfast because it feels just indulgent enough without being over the top.
And finally, the flavor. Sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery crumb—finished with that glossy glaze that makes every bite feel special. It’s not heavy, it’s not fussy, and yet it delivers that wow factor every time.
The Taste of Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake
If I had to describe this cake in one word, it would be comforting. The crumb is tender and moist thanks to the diced apples, which release just enough juice as they bake to keep everything soft. The cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, making every bite feel cozy. And the glaze? Oh, the glaze. It’s simple—just powdered sugar, a little milk, and vanilla—but it seeps into the top layer of the cake, creating a sweet finish that balances the fruit and spice perfectly.
Imagine the flavor of a classic apple pie but with the fluffiness of a sponge cake and the sweetness of a glazed donut—that’s what you get here. Anything but boring!!
The Benefits of Baking This Recipe
One of the things I adore about this cake is how approachable it is. You don’t need to be an expert baker to pull it off. The steps are straightforward, and the results are consistently delicious. It’s also a wonderful way to use apples that are a little past their prime—those ones sitting in your fruit basket that are slightly too soft for eating but perfect for baking.
It’s healthier than you might expect, too. Apples add natural sweetness and moisture, so you don’t need loads of butter or sugar to make the cake delicious. And because the flavors are light and balanced, you can serve it any time of day without feeling like it’s “too much.”
Plus, there’s something therapeutic about baking with apples. Peeling, chopping, mixing the spices—it all feels grounding and joyful. This cake isn’t just food; it’s a little baking therapy session.
Ingredients for Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
For the glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
9×9 inch baking pan (or 8×8 for thicker slices)
Rubber spatula
Whisk for the glaze
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
This cake is flexible, which makes it all the more lovable. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half the white sugar with brown sugar. Want extra spice? Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice. Nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch, while raisins or dried cranberries bring bursts of sweetness.
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt works beautifully. For a dairy-free version, coconut yogurt or a plant-based sour cream substitute will do the trick. And if you’re gluten-free, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!
How to Make Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake Step by Step
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking pan.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Mix in sour cream: Blend in the sour cream (or yogurt) until smooth.
Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Fold in apples: Use a spatula to fold in the diced apples.
Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and glaze: Let the cake cool slightly, then whisk the glaze ingredients together. Drizzle over the cake and allow it to set before slicing.
The smell when this is in the oven is incredible!! Honestly, it’s the kind of aroma that has people wandering into the kitchen asking, “What are you making?”
What to Serve with Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake
While this cake is wonderful on its own, you can definitely dress it up. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an apple-pie-meets-cake experience. A drizzle of caramel sauce makes it downright decadent. For brunch, pair it with coffee, chai, or hot apple cider—it’s the perfect sweet companion.
I also love to serve this cake on a dessert table alongside pumpkin pie and pecan pie during the holidays. It adds a lighter option that guests often gravitate toward after a heavy meal.
Tips for Making the Best Cake
Don’t overmix the batter—this is the key to a soft, tender crumb.
Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji so they hold their shape while baking.
Always let the cake cool before glazing, or the glaze will melt into the crumb.
For extra bakery-style presentation, dust with a little cinnamon sugar before glazing.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake it the night before, then glaze it just before serving.
What apples are best?
Granny Smith adds tartness, Honeycrisp gives sweetness, and Fuji offers balance. A mix of two varieties works wonderfully.
Do I have to use the glaze?
Not at all. The cake is delicious plain, or you can dust it with powdered sugar for a lighter finish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13 inch pan and bake for 45–50 minutes.
Can I make cupcakes instead?
Absolutely. Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for about 20 minutes.
Conclusion
Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake isn’t just another recipe—it’s a cake that tells a story. It’s the story of family gatherings, cozy afternoons, and the joy of sharing something homemade. It’s simple enough to make on a whim yet special enough to serve to guests. And the best part? Every bite feels like a little hug in dessert form.
I hope you’ll bake this cake soon and make it part of your own family traditions. And if you’re in the mood for more fruity bakes, try my Peach Cobbler, Peach Crisp, or Peach Pound Cake—they’re just as warm, inviting, and impossible to resist.
Join the Fun
If you make this Glazed Cinnamon Apple Cake, please leave a review and share a photo on Pinterest. I love seeing your creations, and it means so much when you take the time to share. Your photos inspire me, and your feedback helps other bakers find this recipe, too!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 290
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 28g