If you’re searching for a cozy dessert that feels like fall in every bite, this Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake is your perfect match. Moist, sweet, and filled with fresh chopped apples and a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping, it’s a go-to treat for apple season that just happens to be 100% gluten-free.

Whether you’re catering to food sensitivities or just want a lighter take on a classic cake, this gluten free apple cake recipe hits the spot. With simple pantry ingredients, it’s easy enough for weeknight baking but impressive enough for gatherings. It even makes a wholesome option for gluten-free breakfast, snack, or toddler-friendly treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Apple Cake

This moist and flavorful cake delivers the warm, cinnamon-spiced apple flavor everyone craves in the fall, without any gluten. You’ll love how:

• It’s soft, tender, and bursting with fresh apple flavor
• A crunchy cinnamon sugar topping gives it a satisfying bite
• You can make it in one bowl – no mixer needed!
• It’s naturally dairy-free adaptable
• It works for breakfast, dessert, or even lunchbox snacks

It’s just as comforting and delicious as a classic fall cake, and pairs beautifully with seasonal dishes like Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes or this easy Apple Crisp Recipe.

Ingredients for the Best Gluten-Free Apple Cake

To make this cozy cake, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend (with xanthan gum)
• 1 cup sugar (plus 2 tbsp for topping)
• ½ cup oil (vegetable or avocado)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon (plus ½ tsp for topping)
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

Optional: add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch and richness.

If you’re looking for more creative ways to use apples, you might also enjoy Apple Pie Dip with Cinnamon Sugar Chips, which offers a quick no-bake snack or party treat.

How to Make Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup oil, 2 eggs, 1 cup sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
To the same bowl, add 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend, 1 tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg, ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ¼ tsp salt. Stir just until combined.

Step 4: Fold in Apples
Gently stir in 2 cups of chopped apples. Don’t overmix—just enough to incorporate.

Step 5: Add Topping
Mix 2 tablespoons sugar with ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle this over the top of the batter before baking for that irresistible crust.

Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving.

This cake tastes even better with a drizzle of maple glaze or served warm with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. For an even cozier brunch idea, pair it with a mug of Lavender Lemonade.

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Best Apples for Apple Cake

The success of this cake depends on using flavorful apples. The best choices include:

• Granny Smith – tart and firm
• Honeycrisp – juicy and sweet
• Fuji – crisp and aromatic
• Braeburn or Jonagold – great balance of tart and sweet

Avoid apples that are overly soft or bland, like Red Delicious.

Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Apple Cake

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for structure
• Don’t overmix your batter to keep the cake tender
• Let the cake cool before slicing to maintain its shape
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to retain moisture
• Serve with Pumpkin Whipped Cottage Cheese for a protein-rich twist

Variations to Try

You can easily customize this gluten free apple cake with your favorite flavors:

• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts
• Stir in raisins or dried cranberries
• Use maple syrup or brown sugar for deeper flavor
• Bake in muffin tins for zucchini breakfast muffins style bites
• Add ¼ cup almond flour for an almond apple cake gluten free version

Want more healthy seasonal ideas? Check out this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookie Recipe for a low-sugar, wholesome treat.

How to Store Gluten-Free Apple Cake

This cake stores well for several days:

• Room temperature: 2 days in an airtight container
• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days (bring to room temp before eating)
• Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 20 seconds

It’s a great recipe to make ahead for parties or a cozy weekend breakfast along with Mini Pancake Cereal.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spatula
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Paring knife and cutting board
• Optional: stand mixer or hand mixer (but not necessary)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping parchment paper: It makes removal easy and avoids sticking
• Overmixing: This makes the cake gummy
• Using too-wet apples: Pat dry if they’re overly juicy
• Not checking doneness: Every oven is different—start checking at 35 minutes
• Using the wrong flour: A quality 1:1 gluten-free flour is essential for texture

Serving Ideas for Gluten-Free Apple Cake

This cake is incredibly versatile. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Dust with powdered sugar and serve with Fruit Dip
• Pair with coffee or herbal tea for a cozy morning treat
• Turn it into a trifle with layers of whipped cream and sliced apples
• Drizzle with cinnamon glaze and top with Apple Nachos

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FAQs About Gluten-Free Apple Cake

Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free milk if your flour blend requires added liquid.

Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?
You can, but it won’t give the same homemade texture and flavor. Stick to this easy scratch recipe for the best results.

Can I turn this into muffins?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes.

Is this toddler-friendly?
Yes, this cake is soft, naturally sweetened with apples, and easy for little ones to eat. You can even cut the sugar slightly and add extra cinnamon for toddler muffins.

What’s the difference between this and a gluten free yellow cake?
This cake is denser, spiced, and filled with fruit. A yellow cake is lighter and more neutral, like this Vanilla Pudding Pumpkin Bread.

Final Thoughts

This gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake is everything you want in a fall dessert—warm, inviting, full of sweet apples and cozy spices, and it’s so easy to make. It’s ideal for brunch, holidays, potlucks, or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea. Plus, it’s a wonderful addition to your collection of gluten free apple recipes healthy and family-friendly baking.

Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself? Give this recipe a try and let the aroma of cinnamon and apples fill your kitchen.

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