Apple Spice Cake

This Apple Spice Cake is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn. It combines fresh, crisp apples with warm spices, creating a dessert that is both comforting and festive. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even just a cozy night in, this cake stands out with its moist texture and rich brown sugar icing. You’ll find it easy to make and absolutely irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and apples creates a warm, inviting flavor perfect for fall.
• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip this cake up in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm as a dessert or with coffee for breakfast; it’s great any time of day!
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the grated apples and sour cream, this cake stays moist and tender.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings; everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand for an effortless experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Box grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×9-inch nonstick pan
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing wet and dry components.
• Box grater: Makes grating apples quick and easy, enhancing the texture of your cake.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful Apple Spice Cake, gather these 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

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

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

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Fold gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Grated Apples

Gently fold in the grated apples into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake

Turn out the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make Brown Sugar Icing

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Whisk until combined and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 8: Finish Icing

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

Step 9: Icing Application

Pour the icing over the slightly warm cake. This allows the icing to melt into every bite.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Slice your delicious Apple Spice Cake and enjoy it warm!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake

Apple Spice Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Rich and creamy whipped cream adds a light texture that balances the spice of the cake.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices and moist apples beautifully.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A sweet caramel drizzle enhances the cake’s flavors, making each bite even more indulgent.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serving slices with fresh fruit, such as berries or orange segments, adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.

With Hot Tea or Coffee

• Pairing your apple spice cake with a warm beverage creates a cozy dessert experience perfect for cooler days.

Topped with Nuts

• Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.

How to Perfect Apple Spice Cake

To achieve the best results with your Apple Spice Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose crisp, in-season apples for the best flavor and moisture. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith varieties work well.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Spoon and level flour instead of packing it to ensure accurate measurements for optimal texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and sour cream to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry to avoid a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your cake at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking; it should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
• Let it Cool Slightly: Allowing the cake to cool for just 10 minutes in the pan will help it set but still allows for warm icing application.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake

Serving side dishes alongside your Apple Spice Cake can enhance its flavors and make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   These sweet potatoes bring warmth and sweetness, perfectly complementing the spices in the cake.
2. Maple Glazed Carrots
   Carrots glazed with maple syrup add a hint of sweetness and vibrant color to your dessert spread.
3. Buttery Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of apple spice cake, creating balance on your plate.
4. Green Salad with Apples and Walnuts
   A fresh salad featuring apples, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch alongside your dessert.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar or creamy brie, can offer delightful flavor contrasts next to sweet desserts.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs well with the sweetness of the cake while adding extra nutrients to your meal.
7. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can refresh your palate after enjoying a slice of cake.
8. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides comfort and warmth that harmonizes beautifully with apple spice flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Spice Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly skip measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to ensure you don’t add too much.
• Boldly ignore room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or sour cream can affect the batter’s texture. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Boldly overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Fold the wet and dry ingredients just until combined for a light texture.
• Boldly bake without checking: Each oven is different. Use a toothpick to test doneness; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
• Boldly forget to cool properly: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes helps it firm up before transferring it to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Apple Spice Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Apple Spice Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; make sure to label it with the date.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in aluminum foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Apple Spice Cake.

Can I use different types of apples in my Apple Spice Cake?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for different flavors.

How can I make my Apple Spice Cake healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using applesauce as a substitute or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

What toppings pair well with Apple Spice Cake?

Delicious options include whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Can I make this Apple Spice Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How should I store leftover Apple Spice Cake?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for up to five days.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding nuts or spices according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe and enjoy its delightful flavors!