Easy Apple Harvest Cake with Cinnamon Glaze

Easy Apple harvest cake. The perfect cozy dessert for crisp fall days. Made with fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and simple pantry ingredients, this moist cake is easy to prepare and even better when finished with a sweet cinnamon glaze. Plus, it is delicious served with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why This Easy Apple Harvest Cake Recipe Works

This Easy Apple Harvest Cake works because first, the fresh apples add natural sweetness and moisture to every slice. Meanwhile, cinnamon and brown sugar create a warm, bakery-style flavor. Because the batter comes together in one bowl, cleanup is simple as well. Finally, the smooth cinnamon glaze adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the tender cake.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples

For the Cinnamon Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make This Easy Apple Harvest Cake

1. To begin, preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Next, whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon together in a medium bowl.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and creamy.
4. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix just until combined.
6. Afterward, gently fold in the chopped apples so they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 to 42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Meanwhile, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla together until smooth. Add a little more milk if needed.
10. Finally, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 10

Pro Tips for This Easy Apple Harvest Cake

• Use firm apples, such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji, so the pieces keep their texture while baking.
• Do not over-mix the batter because doing so can make the cake dense.
• Chop the apples into small, evenly sized pieces for consistent bites.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing; otherwise, the glaze may melt too quickly.
• For extra texture, add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
• If the glaze is too thick, whisk in milk a few drops at a time.

Storage Instructions

Store the glazed cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Before serving, let chilled slices sit at room temperature for a few minutes so the cake softens. You can also freeze unglazed slices for up to 3 months; wrap them tightly, thaw them overnight, and glaze them just before serving.

Easy Apple Harvest Cake FAQ

Can I use applesauce instead of chopped apples?

Chopped apples provide the best texture for this cake. However, you can replace up to half of the apples with unsweetened applesauce, although the crumb will be softer.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the cake a day ahead, cool it completely, and store it covered. For the freshest finish, add the cinnamon glaze shortly before serving.

Why did my cake turn out dense?

Dense cake usually results from over mixing the batter or measuring too much flour. Therefore, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it before mixing just until the ingredients come together.

Can I bake this recipe in a loaf pan?

Yes, although the baking time may change. Check the loaf after 45 minutes and continue baking until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

If you love cozy apple desserts, try my Easy Electric Skillet Apple Crisp next—it’s warm, buttery and ready in just 30 minutes.

Also, for another simple fruit dessert, don’t miss my Lazy Girl Peach Cobbler.

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