Welcome to your new favorite dessert: Cinnamon Sugar Apple Skillet Cake! This easy recipe combines warm, sweet apples with a fluffy cake that’s perfect for any occasion. I’ll guide you through each step, from mixing ingredients to tips on serving. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, you’ll find joy in making this delightful dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a slice of happiness!
Ingredients
To make the Cinnamon Sugar Apple Skillet Cake, gather these ingredients:
– 2 medium apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (divided)
– 1½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
These ingredients come together to create a soft, sweet cake full of apple goodness. The apples give it a great flavor and texture. The sugar and cinnamon create a warm, inviting taste. You will also need a cast-iron skillet to bake this cake. It helps give the cake a nice crust while keeping it moist inside.
Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best taste. Using ripe apples enhances the flavor. The lemon juice helps keep the apples from browning and adds a nice zing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, you can start making this delightful cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Apples
First, peel and slice your apples thin. I use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best taste. In a medium bowl, toss the apple slices with one tablespoon of lemon juice. This keeps them fresh and bright. Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix well. Let the apples sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This marinating step helps the flavors blend, making your cake even tastier.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add the remaining ¾ cup of sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir everything together until it’s mixed well. This creates a nice, fluffy base for your cake.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, ½ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your cake.
Baking the Cake
Now, heat a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the skillet with cooking spray or a bit of butter. Pour the batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly. Next, take your marinated apple slices and arrange them on top of the batter, pressing them in slightly.
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check the cake by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if you like. Enjoy the warm, sweet, and spiced goodness!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Cinnamon Sugar Apple Skillet Cake
To make the best Cinnamon Sugar Apple Skillet Cake, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients come together. A few lumps are fine. Overmixing can make the cake tough. Gentle hands yield a light and fluffy cake.
Choosing the right apples is key for flavor and texture. I love using Granny Smith for their tartness or Honeycrisp for their sweetness. These apples hold their shape well during baking. Their flavors balance the sweetness of the cake. Try different types to find your favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake warm for the best taste. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes it special. You can also add whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel. Each topping adds its own joy to the cake.
For drinks, pair it with hot cider or a cup of coffee. Hot drinks match the warm spices in the cake. They enhance the cozy feel of this dessert. You can even try a light tea for a fresh twist.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make this cake even more fun! Try adding nuts or raisins for some crunch. Walnuts or pecans work great. They add a nice texture and flavor. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or cloves. These spices give the cake a warm, cozy taste. Just start with a small amount. You can always add more to suit your taste.
Dietary Modifications
If you want a gluten-free cake, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. These flours work well in this recipe. You can still enjoy the same great taste! For those who follow a vegan diet, you can swap the eggs and butter. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs. For butter, try coconut oil or vegan butter. These swaps keep the cake moist and tasty.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your cake fresh, follow these simple tips. First, let the cake cool completely. This helps avoid excess moisture. Once cool, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for the best results. Your cake will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it. Wrapped well, it can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy your cake again, reheating is key. You can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the texture nice and fluffy. If using the microwave, heat a slice for about 20 to 30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat. This can make the cake dry. Enjoy the warm, delicious flavors just as if it were fresh from the oven!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pan?
Yes, you can use other pans. A metal or glass baking dish works well. If you use a metal pan, the cake may bake faster. A glass dish may need more time to cook. Always check for doneness with a toothpick.
How long does the cake last?
This cake stays fresh for about three days at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container. For longer freshness, keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to let it cool before storing.
Can I freeze the Cinnamon Sugar Apple Skillet Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze this cake. First, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It stays good for up to three months. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy it warm for the best taste!
This blog post covered how to make a delicious Cinnamon Sugar Apple Skillet Cake. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips to perfect your cake. Mix apples with lemon juice and cinnamon for great flavor. Don’t forget possible variations and storage tips for leftovers.
Enjoy sharing this cake warm with ice cream. Experiment with flavors to make it your own. Happy baking!
