This Easy Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake is a comforting dessert that’s soft, moist, and full of warm spices. Packed with fresh apple flavor and the perfect balance of cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake is incredibly simple to make and requires no mixer. Whether for a fall gathering, a weekend treat, or just a simple dessert craving, this cake is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a breeze to make with pantry staples and fresh apples. The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a rich, cozy flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. The apples keep the cake moist and tender, while the easy preparation makes it a great go-to dessert when you’re short on time. Plus, this sheet cake is big enough to feed a crowd but simple enough to make without a lot of effort! Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup white sugar
¾ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2½ cups chopped apples, peeled and cored

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, brown sugar, white sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Combine the Ingredients:

Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the chopped apples gently.

5. Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

6. Cool and Serve:

Allow the cake to cool before slicing into 12 pieces. Serve on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices

Variations

Add nuts: For extra texture, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
Icing: Top with a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert experience.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the batter for an additional layer of spice.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm, comforting treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor.

2. Can I use a different type of sugar?

If you prefer, you can use coconut sugar or substitute some or all of the white sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness.

3. Can I add other fruits to the cake?

Absolutely! Pears, cranberries, or raisins can also be added for a fun twist on the traditional apple flavor.

4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

5. How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should also be slightly firm to the touch.

6. Can I use pre-made apple sauce instead of fresh apples?

Fresh apples give this cake the best texture, but if you don’t have fresh apples, you can use about 1½ cups of unsweetened applesauce as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit different.

7. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will stay fresh for a few days.

8. Can I make this recipe in a different-sized pan?

Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square pan, but the bake time may need to be adjusted. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will need a few extra minutes to cook through.

9. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. After it has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

10. Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use a dairy-free milk instead of the buttermilk for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

This Easy Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake is the perfect fall dessert—packed with fresh apples, warm spices, and a simple, tender texture that’s hard to resist. It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients and no mixer required, making it perfect for anyone looking for a quick and delicious treat. Whether you’re serving it to guests, taking it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a sweet snack, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!