Apple Spice Cake

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that captures the essence of autumn, then this Apple Spice Cake is just what you need! This cake is perfectly moist and bursting with the delightful flavors of fresh apples and warm spices. It’s a favorite in my home, especially when the leaves start to change color and the air turns crisp. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a busy weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to your table.

What makes this Apple Spice Cake truly special is its easy preparation and the irresistible brown sugar icing that melts beautifully into each slice. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with friends and family during those chilly evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute baking.
• Family-friendly flavor: With its sweet apples and warm spices, even the pickiest eaters will love this cake!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday dessert, it fits right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it ahead of time, and enjoy slices throughout the week.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of spices gives this cake a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Apple Spice Cake. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry!

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 (~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

This Apple Spice Cake is quite flexible! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use different fruits: Swap out some of the apples for grated carrots or pears for a fun twist.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with adding cardamom or even pumpkin spice for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you put it in. Line a 9×9-inch light-colored nonstick pan with parchment paper and set it aside; this will help you easily lift out your finished cake later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. This step is important as it helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the mixture so your cake rises beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together your wet ingredients: vegetable oil, eggs, both sugars, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mixing them separately allows you to ensure everything blends smoothly before combining with dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour your wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together just until combined; be careful not to overmix! This keeps your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Fold in Apples

Now it’s time to fold in those grated honey crispy apples! Their natural sweetness will add moisture and flavor to your cake—don’t skip this step!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Turn out the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack; this helps keep your cake fluffy.

Step 7: Make Brown Sugar Icing

While your cake is cooling slightly, melt butter along with brown sugar and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until combined and bring it just to a gentle boil; this step enriches the flavors of your icing.

Step 8: Finish Your Icing

Once it’s off heat, whisk in vanilla extract and sifted powdered sugar until smooth. The warmth from the cake will melt this icing perfectly when poured on top!

Step 9: Pour Icing & Enjoy!

Pour that luscious icing over your warm apple spice cake—there’s something magical about how it seeps into every crevice! Let everyone admire before slicing into generous pieces.

Now grab a slice while it’s still warm and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Spice Cake

Baking can be a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your Apple Spice Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, seasonal apples not only add moisture but also enhance the flavor of your cake. Honeycrisps are a great choice for their sweetness and crisp texture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no dry flour is visible. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light and fluffy texture we desire.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your cake around the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. This way, you avoid overbaking.

• Drizzle Icing on Warm Cake: Pour the icing over the cake while it’s still warm to allow it to soak into the cake slightly. This makes each slice extra moist and flavorful.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

This Apple Spice Cake is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing! Here are some wonderful ways to present this treat that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the spices beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon or powdered sugar right before serving gives it an elegant look.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm spices in the cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the cake and adds a pop of color to your plate.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears and berries offers freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the spice cake.
• Herbal Tea: Serve slices of this cake alongside a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat that warms both body and soul.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Spice Cake will not only taste fantastic but also look inviting on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Spice Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it fresh throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve your cake for those cozy autumn days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover icing, keep it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• To maintain the cake’s moisture, consider placing a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between the cake and the lid of the container.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat slices from frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• If your cake is at room temperature, heat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• For a delightful touch, you can drizzle some extra brown sugar icing on top before serving warm.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While honey crisp apples provide great sweetness and texture, you can also use Granny Smith or Fuji apples. Just choose your favorite variety!

How can I make my Apple Spice Cake more moist?

To ensure your Apple Spice Cake remains moist, use fresh, grated apples and don’t overmix your batter. The sour cream also adds to its moisture!

Is this Apple Spice Cake suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This cake is fantastic for meal prep. You can bake it ahead of time and store it properly to enjoy throughout the week.

How long does this Apple Spice Cake last?

When stored correctly at room temperature in an airtight container, your Apple Spice Cake will last about 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake is truly a celebration of fall flavors! With its moist texture and delightful brown sugar icing, it’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea on a chilly evening. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Happy baking!