Apple Cinnamon Cake with Honey Glaze and Pistachios

Apple Cinnamon Cake with Honey Glaze and Pistachios
This Apple Cinnamon Cake is a light, moist, and comforting dessert made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Infused with the gentle aroma of vanilla and cinnamon, and naturally sweetened with grated apple, this cake is soft, fragrant, and beautifully rustic. A delicate topping of apple slices caramelized during baking adds a charming, homey touch—while the final drizzle of honey and chopped pistachios elevates it into something truly special. Whether you’re hosting guests, enjoying an afternoon tea, or looking for a quick autumn-inspired dessert, this recipe delivers cozy flavor and golden perfection in every slice.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8–10 slices
Cuisine: European-Inspired Home Baking

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

3 large eggs

A pinch of salt

A splash of vanilla extract or 1 packet of vanilla sugar

100g sugar (½ cup)

80ml oil (⅓ cup; sunflower or vegetable oil recommended)

1 apple, finely grated

Dry Ingredients:

200g all-purpose flour (1⅓ cup)

10g baking powder (about 2 teaspoons)

½ teaspoon cinnamon

Toppings and Finish:

1 additional apple, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon sugar (for apple topping)

1 tablespoon diluted honey (for brushing)

1–2 tablespoons chopped pistachios

Optional Add-Ins:

Zest of ½ lemon for brightness

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A handful of raisins or chopped nuts

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Batter Base
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add a pinch of salt. Whisk until slightly frothy. Add the sugar and vanilla, and beat with a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes pale and airy—about 2–3 minutes.

2. Add Oil and Grated Apple
Pour in the oil and mix until incorporated. Peel and finely grate one apple using a fine grater. Add the apple to the batter and gently mix to combine. This adds natural moisture and a subtle sweetness to the cake.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Sifting in two batches helps prevent clumps and ensures an even rise. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until no dry patches remain. The batter should be smooth but thick.

4. Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 24 cm (9.5-inch) round baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour in the batter and spread it evenly with a spatula.

5. Add the Apple Topping
Thinly slice the second apple into even rounds or half-moons. Arrange the slices in a circular pattern on top of the batter. Sprinkle the apple topping with 1 tablespoon of sugar to help it caramelize during baking.

6. Bake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cake on the middle rack for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

7. Glaze and Garnish
Once baked, allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes. While still warm, brush the top with diluted honey for a glossy finish. Sprinkle generously with chopped pistachios for added crunch and color.

8. Serve
Slice and serve the cake warm or at room temperature. Pair with tea, coffee, or a glass of warm milk for a comforting treat.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 10 Slices)
Calories: 210
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 1.5g
Sodium: 80mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Apple cakes are a staple in many European kitchens, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe. Whether it’s a strudel in Austria, a French tarte tatin, or a rustic German Apfelkuchen, the apple has always been a favorite in home baking. This recipe reflects a more modern, simplified take on traditional apple cake—offering the sweet, spiced flavor with fewer steps and common pantry ingredients. Its popularity today lies in its versatility: it can be rustic or refined, seasonal or everyday.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients: No specialty items needed.

Moist texture: Thanks to grated apple and oil.

Naturally sweet: Less added sugar due to the fruit.

Beautiful presentation: Apple slices on top caramelize beautifully.

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for brunch, birthdays, or potlucks.

Health Benefits

Apples provide fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C.

Eggs are a good source of protein and healthy fats.

Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar and improve digestion.

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Pistachios are rich in heart-healthy fats and vitamin B6.

Using oil instead of butter makes the cake lighter and keeps it moist longer.

Serving Suggestions
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Serve alongside a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Enjoy warm with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt.

Pack into lunchboxes for a sweet mid-day snack.

Cooking Tips

Use a sweet-tart apple like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for more flavor.

Grate the apple just before using to prevent browning.

Don’t overmix the batter—fold gently once flour is added.

Keep an eye on the oven; ovens may vary, and you want the center just set.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Variations to Try

Add chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for crunch.

Use pears instead of apples for a twist.

Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and yogurt.

Add orange zest for a citrusy aroma.

Make mini cakes using muffin tins—bake for 20–25 minutes.

Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Cake with Honey Glaze and Pistachios is a gentle, heartwarming treat that brings together wholesome ingredients and sweet autumnal flavors. It’s easy enough for everyday baking but elegant enough to share. From the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes to the final bite topped with honey and pistachio, this recipe is a reminder of how little it takes to create something deeply satisfying and memorable.