Introduction
This Cinnamon Apple Slice Cake is the definition of comfort baking. Packed with layers of juicy apples scented with warm cinnamon, this soft and tender cake slice is perfect for fall mornings, afternoon snacks, or cozy dessert nights. The texture lands somewhere between a cake, a pie, and a crumble—firm enough to slice neatly yet moist enough to melt in your mouth. With simple ingredients and a naturally rustic finish, this recipe is ideal for home bakers who love clean, wholesome flavors. Serve warm with powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
Apple Layer
- 4 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, and cinnamon until evenly combined. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until the batter is smooth, thick, and lump-free. This batter will serve as the flavorful foundation for the apples, adding structure and moisture to the finished slice cake.
Prepare the Apples
Peel the apples and slice them thinly so they soften evenly while baking. Toss the slices in a bowl with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. The sugar draws out the apple juices, the cinnamon adds warmth, and the lemon helps balance sweetness and maintain the apples’ fresh color. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes so the flavors blend and the apples begin releasing their natural juices.
Assemble the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly with butter. Spread half of the batter into the bottom of the pan and smooth into the corners. Arrange half of the apple slices evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and gently spread without disturbing the slices. Layer the remaining apples across the surface, packing them closely to form a thick apple crown that caramelizes while baking.
Bake
Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. The top should turn golden and slightly crisp, and the cake should spring back lightly when touched. A knife inserted into the center should emerge moist but not wet. Once baked, cool the cake for at least 20 minutes to allow the layers to set before slicing into squares or bars.
Serving Suggestions
Dust the finished slices with powdered sugar for a crisp classic topping. Serve warm for maximum gooey apple layering, or chill for cleaner cuts and a firmer texture. For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce, serve alongside vanilla ice cream, or enjoy with a hot mug of tea or coffee.
Storage
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 24 hours or refrigerate for up to three days. Warm slightly before eating to revive the buttery cinnamon fragrance and tender apple layers.
Enjoy this homemade Cinnamon Apple Slice Cake—simple ingredients transformed into delicious comfort in every bite! 🍎✨