### Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
7. Arrange the thinly sliced apples over the top of the batter in a decorative pattern, or simply spread them evenly.
8. In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples.
9. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. This cake is delicious warm or at room temperature.
### Short Tips
* For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar topping.
* Serve plain, with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
* Don’t worry if the apples sink a little – it’s all part of the charm!
* Store leftover cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
