1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

2️⃣ Prepare the apples: In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Toss the apple slices in this mixture to coat them evenly. Set aside.

3️⃣ Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

4️⃣ Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

5️⃣ Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

6️⃣ Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

7️⃣ Pour the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top to make it even.

8️⃣ Arrange the apples: Gently arrange the apple slices on top of the batter, covering the surface evenly in a decorative pattern.

9️⃣ Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples.

🔟 Bake the cake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1️⃣1️⃣ Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

1️⃣2️⃣ Serve: Serve the cake as is, or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.