Name: Healthy Apple Cake with Cinnamon and Walnuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14oz / 400g red apples such as Fuji or Gala – approx 2 medium apples; 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup melted coconut oil; ⅓ cup honey; ¼ cup milk – soy milk used; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups rolled oats or oat flour; 2 teaspoons cinnamon powder; 2 teaspoons baking powder; Pinch of salt; ¼ cup walnuts – finely chopped; Small handful of rolled oats; Dusting of icing sugar – optional

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If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that feels indulgent yet keeps things on the wholesome side, this Healthy Apple Cake with Cinnamon and Walnuts Recipe is exactly what you need to try. Imagine tender, moist apple cake pieces bursting with natural sweetness from fresh apples, a warm embrace of cinnamon spice, and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts. It’s a beautiful harmony of texture and flavor that feels like a hug from the inside. Whether you want an afternoon treat or a dessert to impress guests without guilt, this cake strikes the perfect balance between health and decadence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board spread with many small diced pieces of pale yellow apple in the center, with two longer rectangular apple pieces placed on the right side of the board. Above the apple pieces, there is a small pile of deep red apple peelings. The whole scene sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the magic in this cake starts with simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a rich, hearty flavor and texture. Each one plays a critical role: apples add juiciness and natural sweetness, cinnamon infuses warmth and an irresistible aroma, and walnuts contribute a delightful crunch and healthy fats.

14oz / 400g red apples such as Fuji or Gala: Choose crisp, sweet apples that hold their shape well for balanced moisture and flavor.
2 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together while enriching the cake’s texture.
⅓ cup melted coconut oil: Adds healthy fat and a subtle tropical note that keeps the cake moist.
⅓ cup honey: A natural sweetener that enhances the apple’s sweetness without refined sugar.
¼ cup milk (soy milk works beautifully): Helps create a tender crumb and complements the dry ingredients.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts sweetness and adds fragrant depth.
2 cups rolled oats or oat flour: Provides bulk and a hearty texture, making the cake wholesome and filling.
2 teaspoons cinnamon powder: Essential for that warm, spicy kick that makes the apples shine.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cake lift and fluffiness.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
¼ cup walnuts, finely chopped: Adds crunch and nuttiness as a garnish and within the cake.
Small handful of rolled oats: Sprinkled on top for texture.
Dusting of icing sugar (optional): For a delicate finishing touch and extra sweetness.

How to Make Healthy Apple Cake with Cinnamon and Walnuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling and finely dicing your apples. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly they’ll distribute throughout the cake, ensuring every bite bursts with juicy apple flavor. If you prefer a bit of texture, keep some slightly chunkier bits for a pleasant surprise inside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, melted coconut oil, honey, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. This creates a luscious base that will soak into your oats and apples, making each mouthful moist and rich without needing refined sugar or butter.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats (or oat flour), cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. The cinnamon not only flavors the cake but adds a cozy warmth that complements the apples perfectly.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Fold the diced apples into the wet mixture, then gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be thick but just blended. The oats will give it a lovely texture, creating a dense, wholesome cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Pan and Garnish

Transfer the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan. Sprinkle finely chopped walnuts and a handful of rolled oats evenly on top to add crunch and a rustic look. If you like, add a light dusting of icing sugar at the end for a pretty, subtle sweetness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is cooked through but still tender and moist inside.

How to Serve Healthy Apple Cake with Cinnamon and Walnuts Recipe

A round, golden brown cake topped with a thick layer of chopped nuts, mainly walnuts, covering the entire top surface, giving it a rough and crunchy texture. One slice is taken out and slightly pulled out, showing a dense, moist interior of the cake that is the same golden brown color as the outside. The cake sits on a simple white plate, placed on a white marbled surface, with two bright red apples positioned to the right side of the plate and a light blue cloth napkin on the left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra walnut halves scattered on top adds a lovely finishing touch. For extra cozy vibes, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey complements it beautifully without overpowering the flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair this apple cake with a warm cup of spiced tea or a frothy cappuccino to elevate your snack time. For an especially indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of homemade applesauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into rustic squares and present it on a wooden board with scattered apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a rustic, inviting look. You can also cut smaller bite-sized pieces and serve them on decorative plates or skewers for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Healthy Apple Cake with Cinnamon and Walnuts Recipe keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days at room temperature if covered tightly, or up to a week when refrigerated. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moist texture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the cake later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, ready to be thawed whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or pop them in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This will restore the cake’s soft, tender crumb and awaken the aromas of cinnamon and walnuts.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Fuji and Gala apples are suggested for their sweetness and texture, you can experiment with Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or even Granny Smith apples if you love a tangier flavor. Just keep in mind that tarter apples might need a tad more honey for balance.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Use certified gluten-free rolled oats or oat flour to ensure the cake stays gluten-free. Just double-check that all ingredients, especially baking powder, are gluten-free certified to avoid any cross-contamination.

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Definitely. Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all work wonderfully in this recipe—each adds its own signature crunch and flavor. Toast the nuts lightly before chopping to bring out their oils and deepen their taste.

How can I make this cake vegan?

For a vegan version, swap the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk and maple syrup or agave instead of honey. Melting coconut oil remains perfect as a fat source.

What’s the best way to prevent the cake from drying out?

Make sure not to overbake—the cake should come out moist and tender. Also, storing it in an airtight container and adding fruit like apples naturally keeps the moisture locked in. If it feels dry after a day or two, a quick reheat with a drizzle of milk or yogurt helps revive it beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a slice of warm, spiced apple cake that feels both nourishing and indulgent. The Healthy Apple Cake with Cinnamon and Walnuts Recipe brings together wholesome ingredients to create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—from cozy afternoons to festive gatherings. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones. Trust me, this cake will quickly become one of your all-time favorites!