Ultimate Cinnamon Apple Moonshine Cake Recipe

Cinnamon Apple Moonshine Cake delivers an irresistible combination of juicy apples, aromatic cinnamon, and a subtle kick of moonshine for a dessert with true Southern character.

This cake goes beyond a basic apple cake by introducing a rich cinnamon swirl and a homemade moonshine caramel glaze that soaks into every bite.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your fall baking game, this recipe covers both the classic boozy version and tips for an alcohol-free adaptation.

Discover how to create a truly memorable cake with perfectly balanced flavors, tender texture, and an impressive finish.

Ingredients Checklist

Before starting, gather all the essentials for this cake and glaze. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the results.

Cake Base

• 2 medium crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for apples)

• 2½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for batter)

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl

• ⅓ cup (65g) light brown sugar

• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Moonshine Caramel Glaze

• ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar

• ¼ cup (60ml) unsalted butter

• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream

• ¼ cup (60ml) cinnamon apple moonshine (or regular apple moonshine, see notes for non-alcoholic option)

• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins

• ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (fold into batter for crunch)

• Zest of one orange (adds a citrusy twist)

Equipment

• 9-inch Bundt pan, loaf pan, or 9×13-inch pan

• Parchment paper (if using a flat pan)

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer

• Saucepan (for glaze)

• Whisk, spatula, and mixing bowls

• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear, comprehensive steps to bake the best Cinnamon Apple Moonshine Cake at home.

1. Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and dice apples into ½-inch chunks. Toss with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon and set aside. This step helps intensify the apple flavor throughout the cake.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon together until evenly blended.

3. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with granulated and brown sugar until combined and smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix to keep the cake tender.

4. Fold in Apples (and Nuts, if using)
Gently fold in the cinnamon-coated apples and optional toasted nuts. The apples should be evenly distributed, but do not overwork the batter.

5. Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. Set aside.

6. Assemble the Cake
Pour half the batter into a well-greased pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter and gently smooth the surface.

7. BakeBake at 350°F (175°C):

• Bundt pan: 50–60 minutes

• Loaf or 9×13-inch pan: 35–45 minutes

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs. Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

8. Cool and Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Invert onto a wire rack and cool until just warm.

9. Prepare the Moonshine Caramel Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt brown sugar and butter over medium heat. Add cream and salt, stirring constantly until smooth and bubbling (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in cinnamon apple moonshine. (For a non-alcoholic glaze, replace moonshine with apple cider and a dash of extra cinnamon.)

10. Glaze the Cake
Drizzle about three-quarters of the warm glaze over the slightly warm cake, allowing it to soak in. Let rest for 20–30 minutes, then pour the remaining glaze on top just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

A few key tips ensure bakery-quality cake every time:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: They blend better and help the cake rise evenly.

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the batter can lead to a tough texture.

• Choose the Right Apples: Firm, tart-sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith add the best flavor and won’t become mushy.

• Let the Glaze Soak In: Pouring the glaze on while the cake is warm helps infuse every crumb with moisture and flavor.

• For More Apple Flavor: Add a half cup of applesauce to the batter, but reduce milk slightly to keep the right consistency.

• Alcohol-Free Version: Substitute the moonshine with apple cider or juice and a pinch more cinnamon for all ages.

Serving Suggestions

Showcase your Cinnamon Apple Moonshine Cake in creative and delicious ways:

• Serve slices warm with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.

• Pair with a mug of spiced apple cider, chai latte, or hot toddy for a cozy dessert.

• For festive occasions, garnish with extra diced apples sautéed in butter and cinnamon, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Serve individual mini cakes baked in jars for unique party treats.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Apple Moonshine Cake is a standout dessert that brings together classic comfort and a spirited twist.

Unlike standard apple cakes, this version features a cinnamon sugar swirl, a moist crumb, and a rich caramel moonshine glaze that’s easily adapted for non-alcoholic enjoyment.

Every bite offers layers of flavor and the perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Bake it for celebrations, gifting, or just because—you’ll want to savor it long after the last crumb is gone.