Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite Fall cake! This Apple Spice Cake Recipe combines the delightful flavors of fresh apples with a warm blend of spices, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners. It’s moist, fragrant, and can easily become the star of any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples and spices creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or an afternoon tea, this cake fits beautifully into any event.
• Moist Texture: The use of apple cider and grated apples ensures the cake stays moist and flavorful throughout.
• Simple Glaze: A quick cinnamon glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness without overwhelming the apple flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your process and ensure your cake comes out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugars easy, giving you a fluffy base for your cake.
• Loaf pan: A properly sized loaf pan ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect shape.
• Parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment aids in easy removal, preventing any sticking issues.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Apple Spice Cake Recipe, gather 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 the 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 as needed.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add in the large eggs:
* Incorporate them one at a time until fully mixed.
* Scrape down the bowl between additions if necessary.

Step 4: Mix in Vanilla

Pour in the vanilla extract:
* Mix until combined evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients Alternately with Apple Cider

Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet:
* Alternate adding dry mixture and apple cider into the butter mixture. Start with dry ingredients and end with them too.

Step 7: Fold in Grated Apples

Remove from mixer:
* Gently fold in grated apples using a large spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until blended.

Step 8: Bake

Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan:
* Place it in the center rack of your oven.
* Bake for about 55 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with few crumbs. If browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Let your cake cool:
* After removing from oven, allow it to cool in pan for about 15 minutes.
* Use parchment overhangs to lift out gently from pan and cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Serving your Apple Spice Cake Recipe can be as delightful as baking it. This cake is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its warm and cozy flavors.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that balances the density of the cake.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a deliciously creamy contrast.

Top with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich, tangy flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Accompany with Fresh Fruit

• Slices of fresh apples or pears can add a refreshing crunch and additional fruitiness to your dessert.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce enhances sweetness and adds a luxurious touch that elevates the cake experience.

Enjoy with Hot Beverages

• Pairing slices with coffee, tea, or hot apple cider can make for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Apple Spice Cake Recipe

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.

• Grate Apples Properly: Grate apples finely and blot them dry to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold in dry ingredients to keep the cake light and airy.

• Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean or with few crumbs attached.

• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Let the cake cool on a wire rack to avoid melting the glaze too quickly.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Spice Cake Recipe can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A scoop of vanilla yogurt provides a tangy contrast that complements the spices in the cake.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Warm toast sprinkled with cinnamon sugar offers a simple yet delicious addition to your dessert spread.

3. Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai tea harmonize wonderfully with apple spice, making for an inviting pairing.

4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted walnuts or pecans adds crunch and nutty flavor which contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cake.

5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brightens up your dessert table while adding freshness.

6. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup over each slice enhances sweetness and pairs beautifully with apple flavors.

7. Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses such as brie or gouda for a savory touch that balances the sweetness of the cake.

8. Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea serves as an excellent beverage option, enhancing relaxation while enjoying your slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and there are common pitfalls to watch out for when making your apple spice cake.

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the grating step: Grated apples add moisture and flavor. Always grate your apples before adding them to ensure even distribution and taste.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise quantities.
• Opening the oven too soon: This can cause your cake to collapse. Wait until the minimum baking time has passed before checking for doneness.
• Neglecting to cool properly: Cooling is important for texture. Allow your cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover apple spice cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the apple spice cake recipe.

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

Yes! You can substitute grated pears or even shredded carrots for a unique twist on flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this apple spice cake recipe, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What spices work best in this Apple Spice Cake Recipe?

Besides cinnamon, you might try adding allspice or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

This apple spice cake recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings during fall. Its warm spices and moist texture make it irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or raisins for added crunch or sweetness!