Apple Spice Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert to warm your heart and home this autumn, look no further than this delightful Apple Spice Cake. It’s the kind of cake that fills your kitchen with the comforting scents of cinnamon and freshly grated apples, reminding you of crisp fall days and family gatherings. This recipe is a cherished favorite because it’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight or serve at a gathering with friends. Trust me, each bite will bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Moist: The combination of fresh apples and sour cream ensures that this cake stays moist and tender.
• Deliciously Spiced: With warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, every slice is full of flavor that captures the essence of autumn.
• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking pro to create this scrumptious cake; it comes together quickly with simple steps.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The sweet apple flavor makes it appealing for everyone, young or old.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it warm, or save some slices for later—if they last that long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Apple Spice Cake uses simple, wholesome items you likely already have in your kitchen. Each ingredient plays a role in making this cake flavorful and moist.

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

One of the best things about this Apple Spice Cake is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Apples: Try using Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Fuji for extra sweetness.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Spice It Up: If you love spice, add an extra dash of cinnamon or even some cardamom for a unique twist.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lining your 9×9-inch nonstick pan with parchment paper will help ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agent and spices throughout the flour.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together your wet ingredients: vegetable oil, eggs, sugars, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well blended; this will create that lovely moist texture in our cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into your dry mixture and gently fold everything together until just combined—don’t overmix! We want to keep that light texture.

Step 5: Add Grated Apples

Now comes the fun part! Fold in those grated apples gently; they add moisture and sweetness while keeping our cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake

Turn out your batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. 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 ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack—this helps maintain its shape.

Step 7: Prepare Brown Sugar Icing

While the cake cools slightly, make your icing by melting butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until combined and let it come to a gentle boil—this creates that luscious glaze we’re after!

Step 8: Ice Your Cake

Once removed from heat, whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth. Pour this beautiful icing over your warm cake so it seeps into every delicious crumb.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice up your Apple Spice Cake while it’s still warm—it’s irresistible! Gather around with friends or family for an unforgettable treat that celebrates the season just perfectly.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Apple Spice Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Spice Cake

Making this Apple Spice Cake is as easy as pie (or should I say cake?). Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for in-season apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Fresh apples will enhance the flavor and moisture of your cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, which we want to avoid for that light, fluffy texture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create an even batter and results in a more consistent bake.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking the cake around the 35-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness.

• Make Ahead: You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it even tastier when served!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

Serving your Apple Spice Cake is just as fun as baking it! With a few simple touches, you can take this delightful dessert to the next level.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped coconut cream adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with the spices in the cake.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apples.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top gives a lovely finishing touch and enhances the warm spice flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the spiced cake, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness that many will love.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the dense cake and balances its sweetness with some tartness.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this Apple Spice Cake! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a comforting treat at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Spice Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the cake into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label and date the bags, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While honey crisp apples add wonderful sweetness, feel free to use your favorite apple varieties such as Granny Smith or Fuji for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this Apple Spice Cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that it includes xanthan gum for proper texture!

What is the best way to serve Apple Spice Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Can I make Apple Spice Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake stores well and actually tastes even better after a day, making it great for meal prep.

How long does this Apple Spice Cake last?

When stored properly, it will last about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Spice Cake brings warmth and joy to your kitchen this season! Its moist texture combined with fragrant spices and sweet apples makes it truly special. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones or savoring a slice solo, it’s bound to become a favorite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me!