Apple Spice Cake

This Apple Spice Cake is a delightful dessert that encapsulates the essence of autumn. With its moist texture and the rich flavor of fresh apples, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. The standout brown sugar icing adds a sweet finish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this versatile cake throughout the fall season, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: This cake is made with fresh apples, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
• Simple to Prepare: The straightforward instructions make this an easy recipe for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Irresistible Icing: The brown sugar icing melts beautifully into the warm cake, enhancing its deliciousness.
• Seasonal Appeal: Utilizing seasonal apples makes this dessert a must-try during autumn.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Apple Spice Cake, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Box grater
• 9×9-inch nonstick pan
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly blending ingredients.
• Box grater: Perfect for quickly grating apples, ensuring even distribution in the batter.

Ingredients

To whip up this delicious Apple Spice Cake, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 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

Wet Ingredients

• 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

Apples & Icing Ingredients

• 2-3 large honey crispy apples, grated using the large holes on a box grater, ~1 1/2 cups (can keep the skin on)
• 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

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch light-colored nonstick pan with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients until they are well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together all wet ingredients until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and fold just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Add Grated Apples

Fold in the grated apples gently until evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Turn out the cake batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

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 it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make Brown Sugar Icing

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Whisk until combined and let it come to a gentle boil.

Step 9: Finish Icing

Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 10: Ice Your Cake

Pour the warm icing over your slightly warm cake so it can soak in beautifully.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Slice your Apple Spice Cake and enjoy it warm!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

Apple Spice Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for a light and airy texture that complements the spices.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the sweetness by drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a slice alongside your favorite hot beverage to balance the flavors and create a cozy atmosphere.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh apple slices or berries can provide a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the cake.

How to Perfect Apple Spice Cake

Perfecting your Apple Spice Cake will ensure it’s moist and flavorful. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for seasonal, fresh apples for maximum flavor. Honeycrisp apples work particularly well in this recipe.

• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean from the center, indicating it’s baked perfectly.

• Don’t Overmix: Fold the wet and dry ingredients together just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture.

• Let It Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to cool slightly before icing it. This helps the icing melt into the cake without sliding off completely.

• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Spice Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these options:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Lightly toast bread, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a crunchy side that echoes the cake’s spices.

2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cake with its tartness.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy and crunchy contrast that complements the cake beautifully.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, adding richness that contrasts nicely with the spice notes of the cake.

5. Chai Latte: This spiced tea drink enhances the flavors of your dessert while providing warmth and comfort.

6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer an excellent crunchy option that matches well with the flavors found in your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Apple Spice Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter that mixes well, resulting in a moist cake.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of packing it into the measuring cup. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake that isn’t as enjoyable.

• Overmixing the batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, making the cake tough instead of light and airy.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Don’t forget to line your baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of the cake and prevents sticking.

• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. The toothpick test is key—remove it when it comes out clean for a perfectly baked Apple Spice Cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Apple Spice Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Spice Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Apple Spice Cake:

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

You can experiment with various apple types like Granny Smith or Fuji. Each variety offers its own flavor profile, enhancing your cake uniquely.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Plain yogurt or buttermilk works well as substitutes for sour cream, maintaining that desired moisture in your Apple Spice Cake.

How do I know when my Apple Spice Cake is done baking?

Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Can I add nuts or raisins to my Apple Spice Cake?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts or raisins can enhance texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking.

How should I serve my Apple Spice Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy it plain or dusted with powdered sugar!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. It embodies the flavors of autumn with its warm spices and fresh apples. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with different apple varieties. Enjoy this delightful dessert all season long!