Moist and Easy Apple Cake (Gluten-Free Christmas Dessert)

Nothing says cozy Christmas mornings like a warm, fragrant Apple Cake fresh from the oven. With tender apple slices, hints of cinnamon, and a soft crumb, it’s comfort in every bite — perfect for sharing with family or gifting to friends during the holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake

This Apple Cake is simple, wholesome, and full of festive flavor. You’ll love how quick it is to make — just one bowl and minimal cleanup. The blend of almond flour and gluten-free flour keeps it light and moist, while cinnamon and maple syrup add cozy sweetness. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and easy to make vegan, so everyone can enjoy it. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with that warm holiday magic. Serve it at breakfast, after dinner, or as a thoughtful homemade gift — it’s always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Wet Ingredients

Milk keeps the cake moist — almond milk works perfectly for a dairy-free version. Maple syrup adds natural sweetness and depth, while applesauce gives a soft, tender texture. Melted coconut oil (or butter) adds richness, and eggs bind everything together. Vanilla extract ties the flavors with a lovely, warm note.

Dry Ingredients

You’ll need gluten-free all-purpose flour for structure and almond flour for a nutty, slightly dense crumb. Baking powder and baking soda help the cake rise evenly, while cinnamon brings that comforting, spiced flavor that makes every bite taste like Christmas.

Apple and Topping

Use thinly sliced Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples — their tartness balances the sweetness. The cinnamon sugar topping creates a golden, lightly crisp crust with a hint of sparkle. It’s that finishing touch that makes each slice irresistible.

How to Make Apple Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1 – Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment and lightly grease it so the cake lifts out easily later.

Step 2 – Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and slightly frothy.

Step 3 – Add the Dry Ingredients

Add gluten-free flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon. Stir gently until the batter just comes together. Don’t overmix — that’s key to keeping it fluffy and soft.

Step 4 – Add Apples and Topping

Fold in the thinly sliced apples evenly so every piece has that fruity touch. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Combine the cinnamon sugar topping in a small bowl, then sprinkle it generously over the batter.

Step 5 – Bake and Cool

Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. For a festive look, dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle a light icing before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

Use room-temperature ingredients for smoother mixing. Slice the apples thin so they bake evenly into the batter. Don’t overmix once you add the flours — a few streaks are okay. Let the cake cool fully to keep slices neat and crumb soft. You can finish with powdered sugar, maple glaze, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent twist.

What Type of Apples Are Best for Apple Cake?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best for this Apple Cake. They hold their shape beautifully while adding a gentle tang that balances the sweetness. Softer apples tend to release too much moisture, which can make the cake dense or soggy. So, go for apples that stay crisp even after baking.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

It’s easy to make this Apple Cake fit your lifestyle. For dairy-free, use almond milk and coconut oil. To make it vegan, swap eggs for flax eggs and stick with maple syrup instead of honey. Want to cut sugar? Reduce the maple syrup slightly or use less topping — it still bakes up moist and flavorful. This recipe stays forgiving and delicious no matter how you adapt it.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Store leftover Apple Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor deepens after a day, making it even better. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or warm gently in the microwave before serving — it tastes freshly baked again.

Related Recipes to Try

• Amish Apple Fritter Bread
• Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
• Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes
• Apple Crumble Cheesecake
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
• Apple Pie Bites

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

This Apple Cake is the kind of dessert that brings people together — soft, cinnamon-spiced, and bursting with tender apple slices. It’s easy to bake, gluten-free, and full of warmth that feels like Christmas morning in every bite. Share it with your family, wrap it as a homemade gift, or save a slice for yourself — because some cakes are worth savoring all year long.

You can find more cozy dessert inspiration and festive baking ideas on Pinterest.

Print