Are you ready to treat yourself to something truly scrumptious? This Brown Sugar Glazed Apple Cinnamon Cake is a delightful way to enjoy fall flavors year-round. With its moist texture, sweet glaze, and warm spices, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this dessert, along with tips and variations to make it your own. Let’s dive in and bake up some joy!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
For this cake, you need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
These dry ingredients help build the cake’s structure. The flour gives it body, while the baking powder and baking soda create the rise. Cinnamon adds warmth and flavor. Salt balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients are just as important. You will need:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
The butter adds richness. Brown sugar gives a deep, caramel flavor. Eggs help bind everything together. Buttermilk makes the cake moist and tender.
Optional Add-ins
For some extra crunch, consider adding:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
These walnuts add texture and a nutty flavor. You can skip them if you prefer a smoother cake. The choice is yours!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan. Grease it well to stop the cake from sticking. You can use butter or cooking spray. This will help your cake come out nice and clean.
Mixing the Batter
Now, let’s make the batter. In a bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This is your dry mix. Set it aside.
In a larger bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it’s creamy. Next, add 3 eggs one at a time, mixing well each time. Don’t forget to stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Now, you will combine the dry mix with 1 cup of buttermilk. Do this in parts, starting and ending with the dry mix. Be careful not to over-mix. Fold in 2 cups of chopped apples and ½ cup of walnuts if you like them.
Baking the Cake
Pour your batter into the greased pan. Spread it out evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Making the Brown Sugar Glaze
While the cake bakes, let’s prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add ½ cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Stir it until it bubbles and thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Assembling and Serving
Once the cake cools for about 10 minutes, pour the warm glaze over it. Let it soak in while still in the pan. For best results, cool the cake completely before slicing it into squares. Serve it warm or at room temperature. You can add a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special touch. Enjoy your delicious treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get that perfect cake texture, you need to measure your flour right. Avoid packing the flour into the cup. Instead, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This method gives you a light and fluffy cake. Ensure your butter is softened too. Cold butter can lead to dense results. Cream the butter and sugars until they are light and fluffy. This step adds air, making your cake rise beautifully.
Flavor Enhancements
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. This spice adds warmth and depth to your cake. You can also use different apples if you want a new taste. Sweet apples, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, can add a nice twist. If you enjoy nuts, consider mixing in pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. They both add great crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm for the best experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs well with the warm cake. You can also add a drizzle of caramel for a sweet touch. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a nice finish. If you want a lighter option, serve it with fresh whipped cream. This cake is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Variations
Fruit Substitutes
You can swap apples for other fruits. Pears work great if you want a change. They add a sweet flavor and soft texture. Try using ripe bananas for a moist cake. If you like berries, mix in blueberries or raspberries. These fruits bring a fresh twist and vibrant color.
Healthier Alternatives
To make this cake a bit healthier, consider using less sugar. You can reduce the brown sugar by half. Apples add natural sweetness, so cutting sugar works well. You can also use unsweetened applesauce instead of some butter. This swap lowers the fat content while keeping it moist.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer great mixes that work well in cakes. Ensure the blend has xanthan gum for better texture. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat without worry.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
Keep your brown sugar glazed apple cinnamon cake in an airtight container. It stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, store it in the fridge to prevent spoilage. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving. This keeps the flavors bright and the texture soft.
Long-Term Storage
For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw the cake overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the cake, slice off a piece and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. If you prefer a warm slice without a microwave, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This method warms the cake evenly, keeping the glaze nice and gooey. Enjoy your delicious treat!
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use many apple types. Granny Smith is tart and holds up well. Honeycrisp adds sweetness and crunch. Fuji apples are juicy and sweet. Mix different apples for a fun taste.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
To thicken the glaze, cook it longer. After adding brown sugar and cream, let it bubble more. Stir often. This lets more moisture leave, making it thicker. You can also add a bit more brown sugar.
Can I freeze the apple cinnamon cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Serve the cake warm or at room temp. Dust it with powdered sugar for a pretty touch. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it extra special.
How long does the cake last?
The cake lasts about 3-4 days at room temperature. Keep it in an airtight container. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to a week. Just make sure to cover it well.
You now know how to make a delicious apple cinnamon cake. We explored ingredients, from dry to wet, and optional add-ins. I detailed each step for baking and making the glaze. Tips helped you master texture and flavor. Variations showed you fun ways to change the cake. Finally, storage advice ensures your cake lasts.
Remember, baking is fun. Enjoy learning and sharing this yummy treat with others.
