Apple Spice Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that fills your home with the warm scents of autumn, this Apple Spice Cake is just what you need! It’s moist, flavorful, and topped with an irresistible brown sugar icing that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This cake is perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings in, or even as a sweet treat during busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it all season long!

What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a slice of homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your favorite mixing bowl, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Deliciously moist: The fresh apples keep the cake moist while adding wonderful flavor.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will love the comforting taste of spices and sweetness in each bite.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time! It stays delicious for a few days at room temperature.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a potluck or a family dinner, this cake is sure to impress your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Spice Cake features simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Fresh apples are in season and make this cake extra special!

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 (about 1 1/2 cups; skin on optional)

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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! It’s flexible enough to accommodate your personal taste or what you have in your pantry.

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
• Include raisins: Mix in some raisins for added sweetness and texture.
• Spice it up: Adjust the spices by adding more cinnamon or trying out pumpkin pie spice instead!
• Frosting alternative: Instead of brown sugar icing, whip up a simple cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch light colored nonstick pan with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Mixing these first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, eggs, sugars, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely air pockets that give our cake its tender crumb!

Step 5: Add Grated Apples

Fold in the grated honey crispy apples gently into the batter. Their natural sweetness will shine through as they bake.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Turn out the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allowing it to cool slightly before serving enhances its flavors.

Step 7: Prepare Brown Sugar Icing

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream until combined; whisk until it reaches a gentle boil. This process creates that luscious icing we all love!

Step 8: Finish with Icing

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract followed by powdered sugar until smooth. Pour this heavenly icing over your warm cake so that it melts slightly into every nook and cranny—pure bliss!

Step 9: Slice & Enjoy

Once iced (or even if you just can’t resist), slice yourself a generous piece of this delicious Apple Spice Cake while it’s still warm! It’s best enjoyed fresh but also saves well if you manage not to eat it all at once!

Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Spice Cake

Baking is an art, and with a few handy tips, you can turn this delightful Apple Spice Cake into a showstopper!

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for in-season honey crisp or another tart variety. Fresh apples enhance the flavor and moisture of your cake, giving it a delightful texture and taste.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create an even batter that rises beautifully in the oven.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, fold them gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, fluffy texture you desire.

• Check for Doneness: Start checking your cake at 35 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. Every oven is different, so it’s essential to keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.

• Serve Warm: For an extra cozy experience, serve the cake slightly warm. The brown sugar icing melts into the warm cake, creating a deliciously gooey topping!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

This Apple Spice Cake is not only scrumptious but also visually appealing! Here are some delightful ways to present this autumn-inspired dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the spices wonderfully.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon powder can visually enhance the dish while adding a fragrant finish.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of the cake, providing a lovely contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cake and adds a burst of freshness.
• Coffee or Chai Latte: Serving this cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or chai latte elevates the experience, making it perfect for cozy gatherings.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a wholesome side dish that complements the sweetness of the apple spice cake while adding more nutrition.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to bake your Apple Spice Cake! Enjoy every delicious moment as you savor this autumn classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Spice Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or to serve at gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Let the cake cool completely, then slice it into individual servings if desired.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For a warm treat, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of apples for the Apple Spice Cake?

Absolutely! While honey crisp apples add a lovely sweetness, you can use any variety of apples such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala. Just make sure they are fresh and firm for best flavor and texture.

How can I make this Apple Spice Cake healthier?

To make the Apple Spice Cake lighter, consider using unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the oil. You can also reduce the amount of sugar by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.

What makes this Apple Spice Cake so moist?

The combination of grated apples and sour cream contributes to the incredible moisture of this cake. The oils used also help keep it soft and tender!

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

The baking time is typically between 35-40 minutes at 350°F. Always check doneness using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Spice Cake brings warmth and joy to your kitchen as much as it does mine! It’s such a comforting dessert that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones during those cozy autumn days. Enjoy making this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or toppings. Happy baking!