Introduction
When fall arrives, it brings with it the crisp air, golden leaves, and the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apples baking in the oven. What better way to celebrate the season than with a comforting Apple Spice Cake? This cake is a perfect blend of sweet apples, warm spices, and a soft, moist texture that will make you want to savor every bite.
Not only is this apple spice cake a delicious treat, but it also fills your home with the scent of autumn—making it ideal for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a warm, relaxing afternoon paired with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.
The best part? This cake is incredibly easy to make, so you don’t need to be an expert baker to create a mouthwatering dessert. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will quickly become a fall favorite!
Table of Contents
What is Apple Spice Cake?
Apple Spice Cake is a moist, spiced cake made with fresh apples, typically paired with warm flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s an autumnal dessert that combines the best of both worlds—the richness of cake and the refreshing, slightly tart flavor of apples. The addition of these warm spices enhances the sweetness of the apples, making each bite a comforting treat.
This cake can be enjoyed on its own, or with a variety of toppings such as cream cheese frosting, caramel glaze, or whipped cream. It’s a versatile dessert that can be served at any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual coffee breaks.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Spice Cake Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of apples and spice. Whether you’re a fan of classic apple desserts or someone who enjoys the warmth of fall spices, this cake will satisfy your cravings. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Perfect for Fall: The earthy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apples are synonymous with the fall season.
- Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to the fresh apples, this cake has a moist, tender crumb that keeps it fresh for days.
- Simple to Make: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a cake that feels like a true homemade masterpiece.
- Versatile: Whether you want a layer cake, a sheet cake, or cupcakes, this recipe can be adapted to your preferences.
Apple Spice Cake Recipe
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 35-40 minutes | 50-55 minutes | 10-12 slices | 1 cake |
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and grated apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9-inch round or square cake pan with a layer of grease and a light dusting of flour. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the cake once it’s done baking. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt, whisking until the mixture is evenly blended. Make sure the ingredients are well-combined to ensure an even distribution of the spices throughout the cake.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and brown sugar until smooth and well-combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, making sure everything is fully mixed.
4. Add Apples and Dry Ingredients
Fold the grated apples into the wet mixture. The apples should be grated finely so they can blend seamlessly into the batter.Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring softly until everything is just blended. Avoid overmixing the batter, as it may lead to a heavier, denser cake instead of a light and fluffy texture. If you’re using walnuts, gently fold them in now.
5. Bake
Transfer the batter into the greased cake pan, ensuring it’s spread out evenly for a uniform bake. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and dry. If your cake begins to brown too much on top, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts (per slice):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 18g |
Apple Spice Cake Frosting Variations
While a classic cream cheese frosting is a perfect match for Apple Spice Cake, there are other frosting options you can try to add your own twist to the dessert. Here are some variations you can experiment with:
- Cinnamon Buttercream: A rich and creamy buttercream frosting flavored with cinnamon will complement the spices in the cake beautifully. Simply add 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon to your standard buttercream frosting.
- Caramel Glaze: For a decadent touch, drizzle a warm caramel glaze over the cooled cake. The sweet and salty notes of caramel pair perfectly with the spice and apples in the cake.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream is an easy and delicious topping for a lighter version of the Apple Spice Cake. For an added burst of flavor, try dusting the top with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
You’ll Also Love:
If you’re a fan of Apple Spice Cake, here are a few other delicious fall-inspired desserts you’ll love:
- Apple Cinnamon Cake: This cake is similar but adds a burst of cinnamon flavor to every bite, perfect for those who crave more spice in their treats.
- Pumpkin Spice Cake: If you love the flavors of fall, a pumpkin spice cake with cream cheese frosting is another seasonal favorite.
- Carrot Cake: A moist carrot cake with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with cream cheese frosting, is another perfect option for fall gatherings.
- Apple Crisp: For a more rustic dessert, try an apple crisp made with fresh apples, oats, and cinnamon sugar. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Spice Cake:
- Choose the Right Apples:
Opt for baking-friendly apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. These varieties hold their shape and flavor well during baking. - Measure Ingredients Accurately:
Use measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients and a liquid measuring cup for wet ingredients to ensure the correct ratios for a moist, fluffy cake. - Room Temperature Ingredients:
Allow the eggs, butter, and milk to come to room temperature before incorporating them into the mixture.This ensures a smoother batter and promotes consistent baking throughout. - Don’t Overmix the Batter:
Mix until just combined to prevent over-developing the gluten, which can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy. - Add Freshly Grated Nutmeg:
For an extra flavor boost, use freshly grated nutmeg instead of pre-ground. The difference in aroma and taste is worth the small effort. - Grease and Flour the Pan:
To prevent sticking, grease the baking pan generously and dust it with flour. Alternatively, use parchment paper for easy cake removal. - Enhance with Add-Ins:
Want more texture? Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for added crunch and flavor. - Let the Cake Cool Properly:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart. - Use Fresh Spices:
Spices like cinnamon and cloves lose potency over time. Use fresh spices for a robust and aromatic cake. - Perfect Frosting Temperature:
If you’re opting for cream cheese frosting, make sure it’s chilled just enough to maintain a spreadable consistency, allowing for a smooth and glossy finish. - Dust with Powdered Sugar:
For a minimalist finish, skip the frosting and sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled cake for a rustic look. - Store Properly:
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to retain moisture. It stays fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. - Warm for a Cozy Treat:
Serve slightly warmed slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.
By following these pro tips, your Apple Spice Cake will turn out flawless and irresistible every time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Apple Spice Cake with a cake mix?
Yes! You can use a box of spice cake mix as a shortcut. Just add grated apples and perhaps a bit more cinnamon to enhance the flavor. This will save you time while still yielding a delicious cake.
2. Can I substitute the apples in this recipe?
While fresh apples are best, you can substitute them with applesauce or canned apple pie filling. If you use applesauce, reduce the amount of oil to maintain the cake’s texture.
3. How do I store leftover Apple Spice Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets. Just ensure you use a blend designed for baking to get the right consistency.
5. What are the best apples for baking Apple Spice Cake?
The best apples for baking are tart apples like Granny Smith, which add a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Honeycrisp apples also work wonderfully for a sweeter cake.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner party, enjoying an afternoon with friends, or just looking for a way to indulge in the flavors of the season, this Apple Spice Cake recipe is the perfect choice. With its warm spices, moist crumb, and the natural sweetness of apples, it’s a dessert everyone will love.
So, why not celebrate the season with a homemade cake that’s as easy as it is delicious? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of fall with this comforting Apple Spice Cake.
Try out these Oreo dessert recipes and let your creativity shine! We’d love to see your sweet creations. Tag us on Instagram at @SweetEatsRecipes and use the hashtag #AppleSpiceCake to get featured.