If you’re searching for a cozy and wholesome dessert that celebrates the flavors of fall, look no further than this Millet Apple Cinnamon Cake. This cake combines the nutty crunch of millet with the sweetness of apples and warmth of cinnamon, making it perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea on a crisp autumn day or as a comforting treat any time of year. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup millet flour
• 1/2 cup millet seeds
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream

Apple Mixture

• 2 cups apples, peeled and finely chopped (about 2 medium apples)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare Apple Mixture

In a medium bowl, toss the finely chopped apples with lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, millet flour, millet seeds, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using). Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the yogurt or sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Apple Mixture

Gently fold the prepared apple mixture into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Serve

Once cooled, slice and serve the Millet Apple Cinnamon Cake on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Step 11: Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Tips for Perfect Cake

• Apple Selection: Choose apples that are firm and slightly tart, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best texture and flavor.
• Millet Texture: Toasting millet seeds before adding them to the batter can enhance their nutty flavor and crunch.
• Spice Variation: Adjust the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves according to your preference for a spicier or milder flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm Dessert: Enjoy a slice of this cake warm from the oven for a comforting dessert.
• Brunch Addition: Serve it alongside brunch favorites like quiche or breakfast casserole.
• Holiday Treat: Share this cake with family and friends during festive gatherings or holiday celebrations.

This Millet Apple Cinnamon Cake is sure to become a favorite for its comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or just because, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious cake! Happy baking!

3.5