Apple Spice Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Spice Cake is a warm hug in cake form, perfectly moist and bursting with the flavor of fresh apples and warming spices. It’s a delightful treat that’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough for family gatherings.

What makes this recipe truly shine is its easy preparation and the irresistible brown sugar icing that melts beautifully into the cake when it’s still warm. Each bite is a reminder of crisp autumn days, making it one of my all-time favorites to whip up during this season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious cake in the oven in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and spicy notes of this cake are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this cake ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week as a perfect after-dinner treat.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the fresh apples and sour cream, every slice is wonderfully moist and packed with flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this Apple Spice Cake fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Apple Spice Cake requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have 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; skin can be kept 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 Apple Spice Cake is also wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Try adding some cardamom for a unique twist on flavor.
• Fruity Addition: Mix in other fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish. Line a 9×9-inch light-colored nonstick pan with parchment paper. This will help your cake release easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Whisking them together helps distribute everything evenly, which is key to ensuring each bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into your dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to stay tender!

Step 5: Add Grated Apples

Now comes the fun part! Fold in those freshly grated apples. They not only add moisture but also bring that lovely apple flavor we adore in an Apple Spice Cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Turn out the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it onto a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare Brown Sugar Icing

While your cake cools slightly, let’s make that scrumptious icing! In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream until combined and it gently boils. This step is crucial because it creates that gooey texture!

Step 8: Finish with Icing

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 seeps into every crevice—trust me; you won’t regret it!

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Once iced, slice up your delicious creation while it’s still warm (if you can wait!). Enjoy each slice as-is or pair it with your favorite hot beverage.

Happy baking! Enjoy every bite of this comforting Apple Spice Cake—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home as well!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Spice Cake

Making your own Apple Spice Cake is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can make it even better!

• Choose fresh apples: Using fresh honey crisp apples not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture to the cake. Their natural sweetness complements the spices beautifully.
• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, while gentle folding helps maintain its light and fluffy texture.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and sour cream to room temperature before mixing ensures a smoother batter and promotes even baking. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in the final product.
• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean for optimal texture.
• Cool slightly before icing: Letting your cake cool for about 10 minutes before pouring on the icing allows it to soak in without sliding off completely. This creates that deliciously moist finish everyone loves!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

Presenting your Apple Spice Cake beautifully makes it even more enjoyable! Here are some thoughtful ideas on how to serve it for maximum impact.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the icing for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cake, making each bite extra special.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over the top gives a lovely visual appeal and enhances the warm spices in the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm apple spice cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch that complements the apple flavors superbly.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich cake and balances out its sweetness nicely.
• Tea or coffee: Serving warm slices with a hot cup of tea or coffee elevates this dessert, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet afternoons at home.

With these serving tips and garnishes, your Apple Spice Cake will not only taste amazing but also look incredible on any table! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Spice Cake is perfect for meal prep, as it stays moist and flavorful for days. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or just want a delicious treat ready to enjoy throughout the week, this cake is an excellent choice!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, unwrap the desired slice and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delightful Apple Spice Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Absolutely! While honey crisp apples add great flavor and sweetness, you can substitute with other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji. Just remember that different apples will affect the sweetness and texture slightly.

How do I store leftover Apple Spice Cake?

To keep your Apple Spice Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices!

What makes this Apple Spice Cake moist?

The combination of grated apples and sour cream contributes to the cake’s moisture, while the careful mixing of wet and dry ingredients prevents overmixing.

Can I make this Apple Spice Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is great for making ahead. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just follow the storage tips above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Apple Spice Cake as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dessert that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones during those cozy autumn days. Don’t hesitate to try it out and let your kitchen fill with the lovely aroma of spices and fresh apples. Happy baking!