As the cozy embrace of autumn descends upon us, nothing beats the heavenly aroma of a fresh-baked Apple Spice cake wafting through the house. This delightful recipe is your key to savoring the season’s best flavors in every bite. Laden with cinnamon, nutmeg, and tender apple chunks, this cake is both a comforting treat and a nod to childhood memories. Before you know it, you’ll be sharing slices of this delicious creation with friends and family. Let’s dive into this mouth-watering apple spice cake recipe!
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Growing up, I fondly remember the weekends my grandmother would invite us over, luring us into her kitchen with the promise of her famous spiced cake. We’d huddle around the kitchen counter, eyes wide open in anticipation, as she peeled and diced apples with unmatched precision. Each bite of her cake was a sweet reminder of the warmth and joy she spread through the simplicity of her baking. I’ve cherished and adapted this recipe over the years, keeping her memory alive, while adding a few modern twists of my own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple spice cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience. You’ll love its moist texture, balanced spice profile, and chunks of juicy apples that deliver a burst of flavor. It’s an incredibly adaptable recipe; perfect for a quick family dessert, yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. The fragrant spices make it ideal for holiday celebrations, while its simple preparation ensures that even novice bakers can achieve delicious results without stress. Plus, it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s pure autumn.
Ingredients Notes
Select honey crisp or Granny Smith apples for the best results—they offer a great balance of tartness and sweetness. If you’re missing nutmeg, a pinch of allspice or ginger works too. For a nuttier twist, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts. Should you wish to reduce sugar, try substituting with honey, but do keep in mind the texture might slightly differ. Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe wonderfully accessible.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, white sugar, Brown Sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. This will be the liquid base for your cake.
Step 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples (and nuts if using), ensuring they are evenly dispersed.
Step 5
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before serving.
Storage Options
Once baked, this apple spice cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If freezing, cut into individual slices, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven for a freshly-baked taste.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Those avoiding dairy can replace butter with coconut oil for a subtle tropical flavor. For an added touch of indulgence, drizzle the cooled cake with caramel sauce or a simple vanilla glaze. You can also spice up the flavors by adding a touch of cardamom or star anise for a bolder taste.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for a cozy fall afternoon alongside a cup of hot cider or tea. Its elegant yet comforting nature makes it a great choice for Thanksgiving dessert tables. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an ultra-decadent treat. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a sophisticated dinner party, this cake fits all occasions seamlessly.
frequently asked questions
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this apple spice cake can be made a day ahead. Allow it to cool completely, then store it at room temperature or in the fridge. It’s one of those desserts that tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld and intensify.
What type of apples are best for baking in this cake?
Both Honey Crisp and Granny Smith apples are excellent choices, providing a nice balance of sweet and tart, which complements the spices. Granny Smith offers more tartness, while Honey Crisp brings a slightly sweeter profile. If you prefer softer apples, Fuji or Gala can also work well.
How can I prevent the cake from becoming too dense?
To avoid a dense cake, ensure you’re not overmixing the batter, which can develop gluten and make the cake tough. Mixing until ingredients are just combined will yield a lighter texture. Additionally, properly measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off instead of scooping directly from the bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple Spice Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples peeled and cored
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until just blended.
- Fold in the diced apples. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
