Step 1: Prepare the apples
- Peel and slice the apples: Start by peeling and coring the apples. Cut them into thin slices or small cubes, depending on your preference. Set them aside to prevent browning.
Step 2: Make the cake batter
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan (or line it with parchment paper) to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This will ensure the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Add the citrus zest and juice: Add the freshly grated orange and lemon zest, and mix in the orange and lemon juice. This citrus twist will add a fresh, bright flavor to the cake.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk (or milk). Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix.
- Incorporate the apples: Gently fold the sliced apples into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the cinnamon sugar swirl
- Prepare the swirl mixture: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Layer the batter: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out into an even layer. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
- Add the remaining batter: Spoon the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon sugar layer, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter in a figure-eight motion to create a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake the cake
- Bake the cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine). The top should be golden brown, and the cake will have a slight bounce when touched.
- Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the glaze
- Prepare the glaze: While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and free of lumps. The glaze should be thin but drizzle-able.
- Drizzle the glaze: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the citrus glaze over the top of the cake, letting it gently drip down the sides.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
- Serve the cake: Slice the cake into generous portions and serve it warm or at room temperature. You can serve it as-is, or pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions:
- With a hot drink: This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or apple cider, making it an ideal dessert for fall afternoons or holiday gatherings.
- With whipped cream or ice cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make this cake even more decadent.
- With fresh fruit: For a light, refreshing contrast, serve the cake with fresh slices of citrus or berries on the side.
Tips for Success:
- Use firm apples: Choose apples that hold their shape during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best texture in the cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix the batter just until everything is incorporated.
- Citrus variations: Feel free to adjust the amount of citrus zest and juice to suit your taste. For a more pronounced citrus flavor, you can add an extra teaspoon of orange or lemon zest.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake (without the glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze when ready to serve.
Conclusion:
This Warm Apple Cinnamon Cake with a Citrus Twist is the epitome of autumn comfort. The warm, spiced cake is perfectly balanced with the tartness of apples and the refreshing citrus kick, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family during the holidays or enjoying a quiet moment with a hot drink, this cake will surely become a fall favorite. Enjoy the cozy flavors of cinnamon, apples, and citrus all in one delicious slice!