Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite Fall cake. The Apple Spice Cake Recipe is a delightful blend of warm, cozy spices and fresh apple flavor. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, this cake stands out with its moist texture and simple cinnamon glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apples and spices creates a comforting taste that captures the essence of Fall.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat—it’s delicious any time of day!
• Gorgeous Presentation: The loaf shape and drizzle make it visually appealing for any occasion.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the grated apples, the cake remains moist and tender.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Apple Spice Cake Recipe successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, resulting in a light and fluffy batter.
• Loaf pan: The ideal shape for baking this cake evenly while providing an attractive presentation.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking, making it easy to remove your cake without damage.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Apple Spice Cake Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100 g) 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 them 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 some overhang for easy removal later. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Add Eggs

Next, add the eggs one at a time:
1. Mix until fully incorporated.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Step 4: Incorporate Vanilla

Add in the vanilla extract:
1. Mix briefly until combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture:
1. Alternate adding dry ingredients with apple cider.
2. Begin and end with dry ingredients for best results.

Step 7: Fold in Grated Apples

Remove the bowl from the mixer:
1. Use a large spatula to gently fold in the grated apple.
2. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 8: Bake Your Cake

Transfer batter into prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake in center rack for about 55 to 60 minutes.
2. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with few crumbs.
3. If browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and cool in pan for about 15 minutes.
2. Use parchment overhang to remove cake from pan.
3. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Spice Cake!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

This moist and flavorful apple spice cake is perfect for any occasion. Its warm spices and fresh apple flavor make it a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways.

With a Cinnamon Glaze

• Drizzle the cake with a simple cinnamon glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon for added sweetness and flavor.

Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve slices of the cake warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is irresistible.

Garnished with Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy finish. This adds a creamy texture that complements the spices beautifully.

Accompanied by Fresh Apples

• Pair the cake with fresh apple slices or wedges for a refreshing contrast. This adds a crunchy texture to your dessert experience.

With Hot Apple Cider

• Enjoy the cake with a warm mug of apple cider. The flavors will enhance each other, making for a cozy fall treat.

How to Perfect Apple Spice Cake Recipe

To ensure your apple spice cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your butter and eggs sit out before baking. This helps them blend better into the batter.
• Grate apples finely: Finely grated apples will incorporate more easily into the batter without adding too much moisture.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
• Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your apple spice cake can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Salad
   A fresh salad with mixed greens, apples, and nuts provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cake.

2. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses like brie or aged cheddar pairs well, balancing sweet flavors with savory notes.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth; think carrots, squash, or Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and herbs.

4. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers comfort alongside the spiced flavors of the cake.

5. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that complements dessert beautifully.

6. Chai Tea
   A cup of chai tea enhances the warming spices in your apple spice cake while providing comforting warmth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making an Apple Spice Cake Recipe. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not Prepping Your Apples: Failing to properly grate and remove moisture from the apples can lead to a soggy cake. Use paper towels to absorb excess liquid before mixing them in.

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cake. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature for optimal mixing.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough. Gently fold in the grated apples after mixing the dry and wet ingredients.

• Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different, so relying solely on time can be misleading. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake.

• Not Using Parchment Paper: Skipping parchment paper can make it difficult to remove your cake from the pan. Always line your baking pan for easy release.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover apple spice cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Apple Spice Cake Recipe:

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

You can certainly experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches! Just ensure they have similar moisture content.

What spices work best in this recipe?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are classic choices that complement apples beautifully. Feel free to add more if you love spices!

How do I know when my apple spice cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a good gluten-free blend designed for baking.

How should I serve my apple spice cake?

This cake is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake Recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors that captures the essence of Fall. Its moist texture and fragrant spices make it perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can customize it by adding nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!