Apple Spice Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that wraps you in warmth like a favorite sweater, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Spice Cake is my go-to recipe for autumn, with its delicious blend of spices and tender apples. It’s not just a treat; it’s a celebration of the season! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this cake is easy to whip up and sure to impress everyone at your table.

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked apples and spices wafting through the house. It brings back memories of crisp fall days and warm hugs. Whether you’re serving it after dinner or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this Apple Spice Cake is bound to become a beloved favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps, this recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Deliciously moist: Thanks to fresh apples and sour cream, each bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
• Perfect for sharing: This cake is great for potlucks or family gatherings where everyone will want a slice!
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and enjoy it over several days—if it lasts that long!
• Warm spice goodness: The combination of spices offers comfort on chilly nights, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful Apple Spice Cake, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create a cake that’s not only tasty but also invitingly aromatic. 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 (about 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love best.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different apples: Swap out honey crisp apples for Granny Smith or Fuji apples for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or orange zest to enhance the flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those who need it!

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.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Line a 9×9-inch light-colored nonstick pan with parchment paper and set it aside. This makes removing your cake super easy once it’s baked!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Mixing them well helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, eggs, sugars, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. This combination adds moisture and sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake—so be gentle here!

Step 6: Add Grated Apples

Fold in your grated apples carefully; they add moisture and natural sweetness to every bite of this lovely cake.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Turn out the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell alone will have everyone eagerly anticipating dessert!

Step 8: Make Brown Sugar Icing

While your cake is baking, melt butter with brown sugar and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until combined and let it gently boil—this creates that dreamy icing we all crave!

Step 9: Finish Icing Your Cake

Once removed from heat, whisk in vanilla extract and sifted powdered sugar until smooth. Pour this luscious icing over your slightly warm cake so it seeps into every nook!

Step 10: Slice and Enjoy!

Let your cake cool slightly before slicing into generous pieces. Enjoy warm as is or with a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent!

This Apple Spice Cake is sure to be an instant hit at any gathering! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Spice Cake

Making this Apple Spice Cake is a breeze, but a few helpful tips can ensure your cake turns out perfectly delicious every time!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for honey crisp or Granny Smith apples, as their sweetness and tartness provide the perfect balance of flavor in the cake. Fresh apples also add moisture and texture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing them in. This helps to create a smooth batter and results in a uniformly baked cake.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, fluffy texture we all love.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake around the 30-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached—this ensures your cake remains moist without being underbaked.

• Serve Warm: While it’s tempting to wait for the cake to cool completely, serving it warm allows the icing to melt into the cake, enhancing its flavor and making each bite extra special!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

This Apple Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy evening or sharing it at a gathering, here are some delightful ways to present this scrumptious dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the icing for added crunch and richness.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture that complements the spices beautifully.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top gives an extra hint of sweetness and enhances its visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream melts beautifully into warm slices of cake for an indulgent treat.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears and berries adds brightness and balances the richness of the cake.
• Warm Spiced Cider: Serve with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a comforting autumn-inspired experience.
• Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage like chai tea or brewed coffee pairs wonderfully with this spiced dessert, enhancing its flavors while providing warmth.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and bake this delightful Apple Spice Cake! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Spice Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and making it a go-to dessert for busy weekdays or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled cake into individual servings.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• To enjoy later, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish.
• Heat on medium power for 15-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm slices in an oven set to 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I substitute other fruits in this Apple Spice Cake?

Absolutely! While apples are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with pears or even grated carrots for a fun twist.

How can I make my Apple Spice Cake even more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits such as raisins. A pinch of extra spices can also elevate the warmth of this cake.

What makes this Apple Spice Cake so moist?

The combination of vegetable oil and sour cream contributes to its moist texture. The grated apples also add moisture and natural sweetness.

Can I use a different type of icing on my Apple Spice Cake?

Yes! If brown sugar icing isn’t your preference, consider using a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a zesty alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this delightful Apple Spice Cake! It’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also fills your home with the cozy aromas of fall. Enjoy every slice whether it’s warm from the oven or perfectly chilled after resting. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!