Apple Spice Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of autumn, this Apple Spice Cake is just what you need. It’s perfectly moist and made with fresh, seasonal apples that give it a delightful flavor and texture. Every bite is topped with a luscious brown sugar icing that melts into the cake, making it an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to enjoy a sweet slice on a busy weeknight, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What I love most about this Apple Spice Cake is how simple it is to make. You won’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just gather some wholesome staples, and you’ll be on your way to baking something truly special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of spices and apples makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The warm spices combined with fresh apples create an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Apple Spice Cake, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Most of these items might already be in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake

• 2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp. ground allspice
• 1/8 tsp. ground cloves
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 2-3 large honey crispy apples, grated using the large holes on a box grater (~1 1/2 cups; can keep the skin on)

For the Brown Sugar Icing

• 1/4 cup salted butter
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 2 Tbsp. heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Mix Up the Apples: Use different varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for unique flavors.
• Spice It Up: Add more spices like cardamom or even a dash of cayenne for warmth.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Line a 9×9-inch light-colored nonstick pan with parchment paper and set it aside. Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. This step blends all those warm spices together so they infuse into every bite of your cake.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Combining these ingredients well adds moisture and richness to your cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and fold gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the lightness we want in our cake.

Step 6: Add Grated Apples

Fold in the grated apples gently; they add moisture and natural sweetness that elevates this cake.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Turn out the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.

Step 8: Cool Before Icing

Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack—this helps maintain its structure.

Step 9: Make Brown Sugar Icing

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream while whisking continuously until combined and gently bubbling. This step creates that rich icing we all love!

Step 10: Finish It Off!

Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract along with sifted powdered sugar until smooth. Pour this warm icing over your still-warm cake so it soaks in beautifully.

Step 11: Slice & Enjoy!

Slice yourself a generous piece of your delicious Apple Spice Cake while it’s still warm—every bite will remind you why this recipe is so special!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Spice Cake

Making Apple Spice Cake is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples enhance the flavor and moisture of the cake. Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their sweetness and crunch, but feel free to mix in others like Granny Smith for a tart twist.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the wet ingredients into the dry helps keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid for this moist cake.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature; always check your cake a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Let it cool slightly before icing: Icing the cake while it’s still warm allows the glaze to soak in, enhancing flavor and moisture. However, don’t let it cool completely, or the icing won’t adhere as well.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist and delicious.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

Serving Apple Spice Cake is all about creating an inviting atmosphere that complements its warm flavors. Here are some creative ideas for presenting this delightful dessert!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a lovely crunch and enhances the nutty spices in the cake.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream dolloped on top provides a creamy contrast to the spiced cake.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top not only looks beautiful but also amplifies that cozy autumn vibe.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The cold, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm apple spice cake, creating a delightful contrast.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spice beautifully.
• Coffee or chai tea: Serving this cake with a cup of coffee or spiced chai enhances its flavors and makes for a perfect afternoon treat.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like pears and berries can balance out the richness of the cake while adding freshness to your dessert spread.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Apple Spice Cake! Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a cozy evening at home, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Spice Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert at any time throughout the week. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, microwave individual pieces for 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Apple Spice Cake.

Can I use different types of apples for this Apple Spice Cake?

Absolutely! While honey crisp apples work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji. Each type will give the cake a unique flavor profile.

How can I make this Apple Spice Cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Can I skip the icing on my Apple Spice Cake?

Yes, you can enjoy this cake without icing if you prefer a lighter dessert. A dusting of powdered sugar would still give it a lovely finish!

How long does it take to bake the Apple Spice Cake?

The baking time is typically around 35-40 minutes. Be sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

What can I serve alongside my Apple Spice Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla non-dairy ice cream for a cozy dessert experience!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Apple Spice Cake! With its warm spices and sweet apple flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home during the autumn season. Don’t hesitate to invite friends and family over to share this treat—they’re going to love it as much as you do! Happy baking!