Apple Spice Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of autumn, then this Apple Spice Cake is just what you need! This cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights or those family gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh, grated apples and warm spices creates a comforting flavor that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

What makes this recipe truly special is the delightful brown sugar icing that seeps into the cake while it’s still warm. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and richness, making it hard to resist having seconds (or thirds!). Whether you enjoy it as an after-dinner treat or serve it alongside your morning coffee, this Apple Spice Cake will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious dessert ready to bake.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple flavors and moist texture.
• Makes your home smell amazing: The warm spices will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma as it bakes.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a potluck, holiday gathering, or simply a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it over several days—it’s even better on day two!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Apple Spice Cake, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Many of them you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we 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

The beauty of this Apple Spice Cake lies in its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different fruits: Swap out apples for pears or even shredded carrots for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some cayenne pepper for a hint of heat!

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish. While that’s warming up, line a light-colored nonstick pan with parchment paper—this will help prevent sticking later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all of your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and those wonderful spices! Mixing them together first helps ensure an even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your wet ingredients: vegetable oil, eggs, both sugars, sour cream, and vanilla extract. This mixture should be smooth and creamy—this is where all those lovely flavors begin to come together!

Step 4: Bring It Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined; be careful not to overmix! The goal is to keep that cake tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Apples

Now it’s time to fold in those freshly grated apples! They add moisture and natural sweetness to our cake. Make sure they are evenly incorporated into the batter.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Turn out the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Pop it in the oven for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean!

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked to perfection, let the cake cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period helps set the structure without being too crumbly when sliced.

Step 8: Make Brown Sugar Icing

While your cake cools slightly (it’s okay if it’s still warm), let’s make that heavenly icing! Melt butter with brown sugar and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until combined and gently boiling—this creates that rich caramel flavor.

Step 9: Finish Off with Icing

Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract along with powdered sugar until smooth. Pour this luscious icing over your slightly warm cake—it will melt beautifully into every nook!

Step 10: Slice & Serve

Once iced, slice up your creation and serve warm! Enjoy every bite of this comforting Apple Spice Cake; it’s bound to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Spice Cake

Making this Apple Spice Cake is a delightful experience that anyone can master with just a few helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for sweet and crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Fresh apples not only add moisture but also enhance the flavor profile of your cake.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and sour cream to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in a more tender cake.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, fold gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid for this light and fluffy cake.

• Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.

• Enjoy While Warm: For the best experience, serve your cake warm right after icing it. The melty icing seeps into the cake, making every bite a little piece of heaven!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

Presenting your Apple Spice Cake can be as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious, dairy-free touch that complements the spice flavors beautifully.

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream provides a cool, creamy balance to the warm spices of the cake.

• Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pears: These sweet roasted pears offer an elegant side that enhances the apple flavors while adding a seasonal touch.

• Caramelized Bananas: Quick caramelized bananas with a hint of cinnamon bring an extra layer of warmth and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with each slice of cake.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to bake and enjoy this scrumptious Apple Spice Cake! It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or just as an indulgent treat on chilly autumn evenings. Happy baking!

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, ensuring you have a delightful dessert ready for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, allow the cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, place them on a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave on high for about 10-15 seconds, or until warm.
• For a slightly crispy texture, warm slices in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While honey crisp apples provide great flavor and texture, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji.

Is the Apple Spice Cake suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Apple Spice Cake is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for busy weeks.

How do I make the icing thicker for my Apple Spice Cake?

If you prefer a thicker icing on your Apple Spice Cake, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I substitute sour cream in the recipe?

Yes! You can use plain yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will keep the cake moist while adding a slight tang.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake is truly a celebration of fall flavors, bringing warmth and joy to your kitchen. Its moist texture paired with that irresistible brown sugar icing makes it a comforting treat anyone can enjoy. I hope you have fun making this cake and savoring each bite! Don’t forget to share your baking experience and thoughts with me; I’d love to hear how yours turns out!