Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite Fall cake. The Apple Spice Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. With its warm, cozy spices and fresh apple flavor, this cake is ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The addition of a simple cinnamon glaze elevates it to a dessert everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that warms the soul.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this scrumptious cake with ease.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or serve it with coffee for brunch; it fits any occasion perfectly.
• Moist and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the butter and apple cider, each slice is incredibly moist and fluffy.
• Perfect for Fall: Embrace the season with this comforting cake that highlights the flavors of autumn.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Apple Spice Cake, gather all necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, ensuring a light texture.
• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for baking this delightful cake evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and allows for easy removal from the pan.

Ingredients

Say hello to your new favorite Fall cake. A delicious apple spice cake with the perfect blend of warm, cozy spices. Full of fresh apple flavor and drizzled with a simple cinnamon glaze.

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 (163°C). Line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides by an inch or two for easy removal later. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about three minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add three large eggs individually, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition. Remember to scrape down the sides again if needed.

Step 4: Mix in Vanilla

Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract to your mixture and combine thoroughly.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, one tablespoon of ground cinnamon, half a teaspoon of salt, one-fourth teaspoon of ground ginger, and one-eighth teaspoon of ground nutmeg.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the butter mixture while alternating with one-third cup of apple cider. Start and end with dry ingredients for best results.

Step 7: Fold in Grated Apples

Gently fold in one-third cup of grated fresh apple using a large spatula. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 8: Bake

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the center rack for about 55 to 60 minutes. Check if done by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil towards the end.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about fifteen minutes. Use parchment overhang to lift out carefully, then cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

This delightful apple spice cake can be enjoyed in many ways. Its warm flavors make it a perfect treat for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations.

Enjoy It Warm

• Serve the cake warm out of the oven for a comforting dessert experience that highlights the spices and apples.

With Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the cake’s spices beautifully.

Drizzled with Glaze

• Top the cake with a simple cinnamon glaze for added sweetness and a beautiful finish. This enhances both flavor and presentation.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch to each slice, making it even more indulgent.

As Breakfast Toast

• Enjoy slices toasted with a bit of butter for a delicious breakfast or snack option that offers a unique twist on traditional toast.

How to Perfect Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Perfecting your apple spice cake is easier than you might think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Freshly grated apples provide moisture and flavor. Avoid using pre-packaged apple products as they may lack freshness.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make the cake dense.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the grated apples to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.

• Tent if Browning: If the top of your cake is browning too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing it to cook through.

• Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool completely before applying glaze. This ensures that the glaze sets properly without melting into the warm cake.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your apple spice cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea pairs beautifully, complementing the spices in the cake with its aromatic flavors.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cake while providing freshness and color to your dessert table.

3. Pumpkin Soup: Serve alongside a bowl of creamy pumpkin soup for a cozy fall meal that harmonizes well with autumn flavors.

4. Cheese Platter: Include cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar on a platter for contrasting flavors that elevate your dessert experience.

5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some homemade caramel sauce over individual slices for an extra layer of sweetness that enhances each bite.

6. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts provides crunch and savory notes that beautifully contrast with the soft texture of the cake.

7. Herbal Infusion: Offer an herbal infusion drink, such as mint or chamomile, to refresh your palate between bites of this rich dessert.

8. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips dusted with cinnamon sugar make for a fun dipping option alongside slices of cake!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Apple Spice Cake Recipe a success. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the apple prep: Not removing excess moisture from grated apples can lead to a soggy cake. Always pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the batter.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense and tough. Gently fold in the dry ingredients and grated apples until just combined.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at 325°F.

• Not using parchment paper: This can make it difficult to remove the cake from the pan. Always line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

• Ignoring baking time: Testing for doneness is crucial; if you wait too long, the cake may overbake. Check for doneness with a toothpick after 55 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place wax paper between layers if stacking slices.

Freezing Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What spices are used in the Apple Spice Cake Recipe?

The recipe features ground cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, which together create a warm, inviting flavor profile perfect for fall.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute or add fruits like pears or even cranberries for a unique twist while keeping the apple flavor prominent.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?

You can replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or any plant-based butter alternative to make it dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different spices. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!