Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

When the crispness of fall fills the air, nothing says autumn like a warm, comforting apple cinnamon dessert. This Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake brings together the sweet, tart flavors of apples and the warm spiciness of cinnamon, creating the perfect treat for the season. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast paired with coffee or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake

This Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake is the epitome of fall baking. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be enjoyed by the whole family. With a fluffy, moist base topped with a layer of cinnamon-coated apples and a drizzle of sweet icing, every bite is pure comfort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as both a breakfast treat and a dessert. It’s a wonderful recipe for those who love the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon and apples.

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake

Before you dive into the recipe, gather these simple ingredients to create the perfect apple cinnamon sheet cake:

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture to the cake.
• Gala or Honey Crisp apples: These apples bring natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth and richness to the flavor of the apples.

• Ground cinnamon: The key spice for that signature apple cinnamon flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake batter for a perfect balance with the cinnamon apples.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay light.

• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together, contributing to the cake’s moist texture.
• Canola oil: Adds moisture and ensures a tender cake.

• Freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds a hint of citrus flavor that brightens the cake.
• Pure vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile of the cake.
• Powdered sugar: Used to create a simple icing that finishes the cake perfectly.
• Water: To thin the icing for drizzling.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, consider these substitutions:

• Gluten-free flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Plant-based oil: Swap out canola oil for coconut oil for a slightly different flavor.
• Applesauce: If fresh apples aren’t available, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute for fresh fruit, though the texture may vary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these steps for a foolproof bake:

1. Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with vegetable shortening, then dust it with flour. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch thick slices. Toss them in a bowl with brown sugar and cinnamon until they are well-coated. Set the apples aside to absorb the flavors.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the oil, orange juice, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs. Stir gently with a rubber scraper until the mixture is just combined.
5. Assemble the cake: Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange the cinnamon-coated apple slices over the batter, being careful not to let them touch the sides of the pan. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter on top of the apples, leaving some areas exposed.
6. Bake the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into a non-apple area comes out clean.
7. Make the icing: While the cake is cooling, stir together powdered sugar and water in a small bowl to make the drizzle. Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing evenly over the top.
8. Serve and enjoy: Serve the cake warm for the best taste, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

• Test for doneness: Since every oven is different, start checking the cake at around 35 minutes. If a toothpick comes out clean from the batter (not the apples), the cake is done.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar in the batter, but be cautious not to overpower the natural apple flavor.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Flavor enhancements: Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture and flavor. A pinch of nutmeg can also complement the cinnamon for a spiced kick.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake can be paired with various sides and toppings to elevate your meal:

• Serve with ice cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing for this warm, cinnamon-infused cake.
• Coffee or tea: For a cozy fall breakfast, enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea.
• Add a glaze: For a more decadent dessert, drizzle the cake with a caramel glaze or top with whipped cream.
• Spicy twist: Add a little cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar coating for a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the apples.

Seasonal & Health Benefits

This Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake is a fantastic dessert for fall, as it highlights the season’s most beloved fruits—apples. The combination of apples and cinnamon not only creates a deliciously fragrant treat but also offers health benefits. Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, while cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate blood sugar.

By incorporating seasonal ingredients and making this cake a part of your fall baking repertoire, you can enjoy a warm, comforting dessert that’s both satisfying and good for you.

Conclusion

Incorporating the rich flavors of cinnamon and apples, this Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake is a must-try for any fall gathering. Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast treat or a comforting dessert to share with family and friends, this cake hits all the right notes. Its moist texture, delightful cinnamon aroma, and simple ingredients make it a perfect choice for baking season. Don’t forget to serve it warm, with a drizzle of sweet icing for the finishing touch. This cake is sure to become a new favorite in your seasonal recipe collection.

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Pie Snickerdoodles: These cookies combine the warm, spicy flavors of snickerdoodles with the comforting taste of apple pie. Perfect for those who love apple desserts with a twist, they offer a chewy texture and sweet cinnamon flavor, making them an ideal treat for fall.
• Easy Apple Crisp Bars: A delicious and easy-to-make dessert, these apple crisp bars bring together a crumbly oat topping with cinnamon-spiced apples, creating a comforting dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings. It’s a great alternative for those who want something similar to apple cinnamon cake but in bar form.
• Pumpkin Better Than Sex Cake: If you love fall baking and are looking for a decadent treat, this pumpkin version of the beloved Better Than Sex Cake is a must-try. Packed with rich pumpkin flavor and a sweet, moist texture, it’s the perfect dessert to pair with your apple cinnamon sheet cake for a holiday spread.

Print