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Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake

Slice of apple cinnamon sheet cake topped with creamy frosting, served on a white plate with a fork, and fresh apples in the background.

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A moist and tender Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake with warm cinnamon spice, rich apple flavor, and a creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings and easy enough for weekday baking.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 stick shortening (such as Crisco)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups peeled, chopped apples
  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup butter, room temperature
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a small saucepan, melt the shortening with the buttermilk over medium heat until smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  4. Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
  5. Slowly add the warm buttermilk-shortening mixture, blending gently.
  6. Fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed.
  7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool the cake completely before frosting.
  10. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
  11. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
  12. Blend in cinnamon and beat for another minute until light and fluffy.
  13. Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake and serve.

Notes

  • Use Granny Smith apples for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.
  • A mix of apple varieties can add depth of flavor.
  • Do not overmix after adding flour to avoid a dense texture.
  • Cake can be made a day in advance for enhanced flavor.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.