If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Apple & Cinnamon Slice Recipe is exactly what you need. With a buttery base flecked with coconut, tangy apple slices nestled in the middle, and a luscious sour cream topping dusted with cinnamon sugar, every forkful is a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and spiced. It’s simple enough to whip up for a casual afternoon snack or to impress friends at your next gathering, making it one of my favorite go-to recipes whenever I want something both comforting and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A square baking pan lined with white parchment paper holds a single layered mixture. The bottom layer is a pale yellow mashed potato spread evenly across the pan, with a slightly lumpy texture. On top of this layer, four dollops of smooth, white cream cheese are placed, spaced apart, showing a soft and creamy consistency. The baking pan is set on a light wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this slice lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays such a specific and essential role in creating the flavor, texture, and look of the final dish. From the golden buttercake mix that gives the base a tender crumb, to the creamy sour cream that sets with a slight tang, all of these components work in harmony.

Golden buttercake mix (340g): This quick and easy mix forms the buttery, golden foundation of the slice.
Coles Desiccated Coconut (1 cup / 90g): Adds a lovely chewy texture and subtle tropical note to the base.
Butter, melted (125g): Binds the base ingredients together and provides rich flavor.
Apple slices, canned (400g): Bring juicy sweetness and a tender bite that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Light sour cream (300g): Creates a creamy, tangy layer that balances the sweetness and sets beautifully in the oven.
Cinnamon sugar (1 tsp): A simple sprinkle that adds warmth and aroma, tying all the flavors together.

How to Make Apple & Cinnamon Slice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Base

First things first, heat your oven to 180°C and grease a 20cm square cake pan. The lining is key here—line the base and two opposite sides with baking paper, making sure to leave a 5cm overhang on the edges. This little overhang makes lifting the slice out after baking a breeze. Once your pan is ready, combine the cake mix, desiccated coconut, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture evenly into the base of the pan – this will become the wonderfully buttery foundation of your slice. Bake it for 15 minutes until it’s lightly browned and fragrant, then set it aside to cool a bit.

Step 2: Layer on the Apples and Sour Cream

Once your base has cooled slightly, it’s time to layer on the flavor. Evenly spread the drained apple slices over the base – the juicy sweetness will soak slightly into the baked base, infusing each bite with lovely fruitiness. Next, spread the light sour cream evenly over the apples. This layer creates a creamy, indulgent contrast to the fruit and the crunchy base. Don’t forget to sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon sugar over the very top; this little touch adds a cozy, warming spice without overpowering the other flavors.

Step 3: Bake to Set

Pop your assembled slice back into the oven and bake for a further 20 minutes. During this time, the sour cream layer will gently set, forming a softly tangy, custard-like topping that contrasts perfectly with the crisp base and tender apple. Once baked, allow the slice to cool completely in the pan – patience here helps the flavors come together beautifully and makes cutting neat fingers a whole lot easier.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

When fully cooled, use the paper overhang to lift the slice out of the pan. Cut into fingers or squares – perfect for sharing or packing into lunchboxes. Serve as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent twist.

How to Serve Apple & Cinnamon Slice Recipe

The image shows three rectangular slices of a layered dessert on a white plate. Each slice has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a light yellow, crumbly cake base with a slightly coarse texture; the middle layer is a translucent, pale yellow, soft filling that looks like fruit or jelly; the top layer is a thick, creamy white topping dusted with a light layer of brown powder, likely cinnamon. The slices are arranged close together on the white plate, which sits on a white marbled surface. The focus is bright and clear, highlighting the different textures and layers of the dessert photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this slice even further. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar right before serving can refresh and brighten each portion. For those who love a little contrast, a dollop of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream transforms this into a special dessert treat.

Side Dishes

This apple and cinnamon slice pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal afternoon snack. It’s also delightful alongside fresh fruit salad for brunch, or served with a wedge of sharp cheddar cheese if you’re after an unexpected savory twist that plays off the sweetness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can turn even a home-baked slice into something wow-worthy. Try layering smaller, cut pieces on a beautiful wooden board with sprigs of cinnamon sticks and apple slices for a rustic look. Stack fingers or squares with parchment between layers in a pretty box for gifting. You can also drizzle a caramel sauce artistically on the serving plate to add an extra layer of flavor and glam.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover apple & cinnamon slice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled helps preserve the creamy sour cream topping’s texture and the fresh apple flavor.

Freezing

This slice freezes beautifully. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or container. Frozen slices will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying as if freshly made.

Reheating

If you prefer your slice warm, pop a piece into a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds until just warmed through. Be careful not to overheat or the sour cream layer may separate. Alternatively, you can warm slices in a low oven (140°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned?

Absolutely! While canned apple slices are convenient and consistent, fresh apples peeled and sliced thinly work wonderfully too. Just sauté them lightly with a touch of sugar and cinnamon to soften before layering for the best texture.

Is there a substitute for desiccated coconut?

If you’re not a fan of coconut, finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can add a nice crunch and flavor twist to the base. Just substitute in equal quantity to keep the texture balanced.

Can I make this Apple & Cinnamon Slice Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free butter alternative and swap the sour cream for a coconut or almond-based sour cream substitute. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What if I don’t have cinnamon sugar on hand?

You can easily make your own by mixing regular granulated sugar with ground cinnamon to taste. This lets you customize the cinnamon intensity exactly how you like it.

Can this slice be made gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, choose a gluten-free buttercake mix. Be sure to check all ingredients for gluten content to keep it safe for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Apple & Cinnamon Slice Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for good reason. It blends simple ingredients into a slice bursting with flavor, warmth, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up or something impressive yet easy to bring along to gatherings, I can’t recommend giving this recipe a try enough. Once you taste that perfect balance of buttery base, tender apple, creamy sour cream, and cozy cinnamon, you’ll be reaching for it again and again!