Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease the Pan: Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
- Add Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Pour and Prepare for Baking
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Mix Topping: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter.
Step 8: Bake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it plain or with whipped cream or ice cream!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
- Add Nuts or Raisins: For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the batter.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: You can also freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
Apple cinnamon cake is a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and delightful flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy baking and savoring every slice!