Apple Spice Cake

There’s something utterly enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the home, especially when it’s a warm slice of Apple Spice Cake. Growing up, my grandmother had a magical way of transforming our cozy kitchen into a sanctuary of delightful scents and shared moments. Her signature dish, Apple Spice Cake, was not just a dessert; it was an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and create memories. This cake, with its tender crumb and spiced apple goodness, always found a place on our family gatherings, particularly during the fall and Thanksgiving celebrations. Each bite of this cake is a warm hug, a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding us of the love and warmth that come with homemade treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Apple Spice Cake

When it comes to making an unforgettable Apple Spice Cake, the ingredients are key players that harmonize beautifully together. The standout elements, like Granny Smith apples and buttermilk, not only add scrumptious flavors but also create that perfect moist texture we all crave. This cake is truly a celebration of the season’s best ingredients!

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons butter, divided and softened – Essential for creating a rich, moist cake.
• 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped – Adds a bright tartness that complements the sweetness.
• 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, divided – Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, divided – Brings warm, cozy flavors to the cake.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Balances the flavors and contributes to the cake’s structure.
• 3 large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Adds a rich, sweet aroma.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of the cake’s structure.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise and achieve the perfect texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Contributes to the cake’s tenderness and moistness.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature – Used for the decadent frosting.
• 1/4 cup butter, softened – Adds creaminess to the frosting.
• 1 cup light brown sugar – Sweetens the frosting and pairs perfectly with cream cheese.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the frosting.

Making This Apple Spice Cake

Creating your own Apple Spice Cake is not only rewarding but also a wonderful way to fill your home with nostalgic aromas. Follow these simple steps to bring this homemade delight to life!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While it’s heating, grab a 9×13 baking pan and grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is an essential step to ensure your cake comes out beautifully.
2. In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Watch as it starts to bubble, which is when you’ll add the chopped apples, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. Cook them while tossing occasionally until the apples soften and the mixture thickens—this should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once done, remove it from heat and let it cool.
3. Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of butter, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat these together until light and fluffy, a process that should take about 3 minutes. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl as you go to incorporate all the ingredients.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is crucial as it helps to create a smooth batter. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for that wonderful aroma.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This is your dry mixture that will add structure to your cake.
6. Gradually add about 1/3 of the dry mixture to the butter and sugar mix, stirring until just incorporated. Follow this with half of the buttermilk, and repeat until all the dry ingredients and wet ingredients are combined, ending with the last portion of the dry mix.
7. Gently fold in the cooled apple mixture into the batter. Be careful not to over-mix; we want to keep that light texture!
8. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 35 to 43 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It’s always exciting to watch the cake rise beautifully in the oven!
9. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
10. While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add in the softened butter and cream together until you achieve a smooth consistency. Gradually add in the brown sugar and continue to beat for about 5 minutes until it’s very light and fluffy.
11. Finally, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract before spreading the frosting evenly over your cooled cake. This frosting is the perfect finishing touch!
12. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, but I doubt there will be much left!

Helpful Notes about Apple Spice Cake

Here are some helpful notes to ensure your Apple Spice Cake turns out perfectly!

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake without frosting for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly and defrost overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Pairing: Serve your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat.
• Variations: Experiment with adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Serving Suggestions: This cake is perfect for celebrations or just as a cozy dessert for family dinners.

Side Dish Ideas for Apple Spice Cake

When it comes to serving the Apple Spice Cake, consider these delightful options:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that pairs perfectly.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream complements the warm spices beautifully.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve a slice with a cup of warm coffee or spiced chai for a delightful treat.
• Fruit Compote: A side of warm apple or berry compote can elevate the flavors.
• Festive Gatherings: This cake is a showstopper for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, making it a great centerpiece dessert.
• Brunch Favor: Perfect to serve at brunch with a warm beverage, adding a sweet note to the meal.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, ensure they are kept in the fridge. This cake remains moist and delicious for several days!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Apple Spice Cake is truly a treasure of flavor and warmth, making it an unforgettable dessert for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful aromas and flavors it brings to your kitchen. Happy baking!

Apple Spice Cake

The ultimate comfort food for fall! This Apple Spice Cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy brown sugar frosting. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy gathering, it's a delightful treat you won't want to miss!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 20 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup butter divided and softened
• 2 cups Granny Smith apples peeled and chopped (about 2 apples)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar divided
• 1 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice divided
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 8 ounces cream cheese room temperature
• 1/4 cup butter softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Equipment

• 9x13 metal baking dish

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat until the butter starts to bubble.
3. Add the peeled and chopped apples, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice and cook, tossing occasionally, until the apples start to soften and the sugar mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl add the remaining 1 cup of butter, ¾ cup brown sugar, and granulated sugar, and beat until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes), scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl as you go.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
6. In another mixing bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, ¾ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
7. Add about ⅓ of the flour mixture to the creamed butter/sugar mixture and stir until incorporated.
8. Add half of the buttermilk and stir. Repeat with another addition of flour, the rest of the buttermilk, and ending with the final addition of flour.
9. Add the cooked apple mixture to the batter and fold-in gently. Spread the batter into the prepared pan.
10. Bake for 35-43 minutes or until the cake is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
11. While the cake is cooling, make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese until smooth.
12. Add butter and cream together until smooth. Add the brown sugar and beat for about 5 minutes, or until very light and fluffy.
13. Mix in vanilla. Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake. Refrigerate leftovers.

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cake without frosting for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly and defrost overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Tip 3: Serve your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat.
• Tip 4: Experiment with adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Tip 5: This cake is perfect for celebrations or just as a cozy dessert for family dinners.

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!