Apple Spice Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of fresh apples. Perfect for gatherings, cozy nights, or just because, this cake brings a comforting flavor that reminds us of home. The smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone feel at ease. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish!
What You’ll Need for Apple Spice Cake
To make this scrumptious cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (5g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (5g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2.6g)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (1.25g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (100g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apples, peeled and diced (honey crisp) (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (120ml)
How to Make Apple Spice Cake
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process to bake this lovely cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This helps to mix in the leavening agents and spices evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk until everything is combined. Be sure not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
- Fold in the diced apples gently, allowing the fruit to integrate without breaking it down too much.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning!
- For the icing, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Mix until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled cake right before serving.
How to Serve Apple Spice Cake
Once your cake has cooled and you’ve drizzled the icing on top, it’s time to serve! Here are some great ideas:
- Slice the Cake: Cut the cake into squares or rectangles for easy serving.
- Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes a delightful pairing with the warm spices.
- Add Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a lovely finish to each slice.
- Serve with Tea or Coffee: This cake goes wonderfully with your favorite hot beverage, enhancing the overall experience.
Expert Tips for Apple Spice Cake
Here are some handy tips and variations for this delicious cake:
- Use Fresh Apples: Honey Crisp apples are great for this recipe, but feel free to substitute them with Granny Smith or Fuji apples for a slightly different taste.
- Spice It Up: If you love a more pronounced spice flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the mix.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. This cake also freezes well, so you can store it for future enjoyment.
Apple Spice Cake FAQs
1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes! While Honey Crisp apples are sweet and crisp, you can use any variety of apple that you like, such as Granny Smith for a tart flavor.
2. How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
3. Can I skip the icing?
Absolutely! The cake is delicious on its own, but the icing adds a nice touch. You can also serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simpler presentation.
Give this Apple Spice Cake a try! The warm, cozy flavors are sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!