Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
Cinnamon Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Cinnamon Glaze (Optional)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (or more to reach desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold the finely diced apples into the batter, taking care to distribute them evenly throughout.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
- Assemble Cake: Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Make Glaze: While the cake bakes, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a thin, drizzling consistency.
- Cool Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set and become easier to glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese cinnamon glaze over the slightly warm cake for a creamy, flavorful finish. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- The cream cheese glaze is optional but adds extra richness and flavor.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American