Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite Fall cake: the Apple Spice Cake Recipe. This delightful treat combines warm spices with fresh apples, creating a cozy dessert perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. With its soft texture and the delicious cinnamon glaze drizzled on top, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples and spices creates a lovely taste that captures the essence of Fall.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions ensure that you can whip up this cake without any hassle.
• Versatile Delight: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a snack with coffee or tea.
• Moist and Tender: The addition of grated apple keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
• Impressive Presentation: Drizzled with a cinnamon glaze, it looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Loaf pan (9 x 5)
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars easy and ensures thorough mixing.
• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for baking your apple spice cake evenly.
• Parchment paper: Helps with easy removal of the cake after baking while preventing sticking.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Apple Spice Cake Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/3 cup apple cider (not apple juice)
• 1/3 cup fresh apple, peeled and grated. Note: Place the grated apples between two layers of paper towels to absorb moisture before adding to the batter.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
* Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
* Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Add three large eggs one at a time:
* Mix until fully incorporated.
* Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Incorporate Vanilla

Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract:
* Mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
* Whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg), and half a teaspoon of salt.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture:
* Alternate between adding dry ingredients and one-third cup of apple cider.
* Begin and end with dry ingredients.

Step 7: Fold in Grated Apple

Remove bowl from mixer:
* Use a spatula to gently fold in one-third cup of grated apple.
* Be careful not to overmix.

Step 8: Bake

Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan:
* Bake in center rack for about 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
* If browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil towards the end.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Once baked:
* Allow cooling in the pan for about 15 minutes.
* Use parchment overhang to remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

This Apple Spice Cake Recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every slice!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Serving your Apple Spice Cake can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Whether it’s a cozy gathering or a festive celebration, there are many delightful ways to enjoy this cake.

With a Cinnamon Glaze

• Drizzle a simple cinnamon glaze over the top for an added layer of sweetness that enhances the warm spices in the cake.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm cake, making each bite deliciously indulgent.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a fluffy texture that complements the dense apple spice cake perfectly.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh slices of apple or pear on the side not only add color but also provide a refreshing crunch alongside the moist cake.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or spiced tea pairs beautifully with apple spice cake, enhancing its comforting flavors.

How to Perfect Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Achieving perfection with your Apple Spice Cake is easier than you think. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and other ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Grate Apples Finely: Grating apples finely allows them to blend seamlessly into the batter, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in dry ingredients and grated apples to maintain a light and airy texture without overworking the batter.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool fully on a wire rack before glazing, which helps set the glaze perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Spice Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors well.

1. Cinnamon Roasted Nuts: A mix of almonds and walnuts roasted with cinnamon offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
2. Spiced Applesauce: Homemade applesauce spiced with cinnamon provides a smooth contrast to the dense cake.
3. Caramelized Pears: Sautéed pears in butter and brown sugar add richness and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with apple spice.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
5. Chai Tea Latte: The warmth of chai spices makes for a comforting drink that enhances the cake’s flavors.
6. Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup serves as a warm starter that sets off well against dessert flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an apple spice cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Overpacking flour can make your cake dry. Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately.
• Ignoring the baking time: Baking too long or too short will impact texture. Always check for doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
• Omitting the grated apple prep: Not absorbing excess moisture from grated apples can result in a soggy cake. Always pat dry before adding to the batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding dry ingredients can create a tough cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake at room temperature for the best flavor.

Freezing Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this delicious apple spice cake recipe, read on for answers to common questions.

Can I use other fruits in this Apple Spice Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute grated apples with pears or even shredded carrots for different flavors!

What is the best way to store my Apple Spice Cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

How do I know when my Apple Spice Cake is done baking?

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Can I make this Apple Spice Cake Recipe gluten-free?

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

How can I customize my Apple Spice Cake?

Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This apple spice cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. The cozy spices and fresh apple flavor make it perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion. Try customizing it with your favorite mix-ins, and enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family!