Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite Fall cake. The Apple Spice Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh apples with warm, cozy spices. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home. Its standout qualities include a moist texture, rich flavor, and an aromatic cinnamon glaze that enhances its charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This cake offers a wonderful blend of apple and spice that delights the senses.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, this cake fits right in.
• Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to grated apples and apple cider, every bite bursts with fresh fruit goodness.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Apple Spice Cake Recipe, having the right tools will ensure success. Gather the essentials before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: A stand mixer makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, leading to a light and fluffy batter.
• Loaf pan: Using the correct size ensures even baking and helps maintain the cake’s shape.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking, making it easy to remove the cake after baking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the Apple Spice Cake Recipe:

• 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 them to the batter.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9 x 5 loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper. Let the parchment hang over the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add each egg one at a time:
* Mix until fully incorporated before adding the next egg.
* Scrape down sides as necessary.

Step 4: Mix in Vanilla

Once all eggs are added, pour in the vanilla extract:
* Mix until combined thoroughly.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, spices, and salt until well blended.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Cider

Gradually add dry ingredients to the mixer:
* Alternate with apple cider, starting and ending with dry ingredients.

Step 7: Fold in Grated Apples

Remove mixing bowl from the stand mixer:
1. Use a large spatula to gently fold in grated apples into the batter.
2. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until no dry spots remain.

Step 8: Bake Your Cake

Transfer batter into prepared loaf pan:
* Bake on center rack 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 towards end of cooking time.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven; let cool in pan for about fifteen minutes.
2. Use parchment overhang to lift out cake; cool completely on wire rack before glazing.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Spice Cake! Perfectly spiced for fall or any time you crave comfort food!

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

This delightful Apple Spice Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday celebration. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it to enhance your experience.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices of the cake perfectly.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: Add an extra layer of flavor by pairing with cinnamon ice cream for a delightful twist.

Add a Glaze

• Cinnamon Glaze: Drizzle a simple cinnamon glaze over the top for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.
• Caramel Sauce: A rich caramel sauce enhances the apple flavor and adds a decadent touch.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices can refresh your palate while complementing the cake’s flavors.
• Berries: A mix of berries like raspberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and acidity that balances the sweetness.

Enjoy with Tea or Coffee

• Hot Tea: Serve with a cup of spiced tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs wonderfully, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert.

How to Perfect Apple Spice Cake Recipe

To make your Apple Spice Cake truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh apples: Opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to provide great flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip grating apples: Grated apples blend into the batter better and keep the cake moist.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly to avoid packing it down, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Let cool completely before glazing: Allowing the cake to cool fully ensures that the glaze sets nicely instead of melting into the warm cake.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Pair your delicious Apple Spice Cake with these tasty side dishes for an unforgettable meal.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds sweetness and richness that complements the spiced flavors perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides brightness and balances the cake’s sweetness with fresh flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie can create an interesting contrast in flavors.
4. Chai Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with chai spices offer a crunchy snack that aligns beautifully with the cake’s flavors.
5. Hot Cider: A mug of warm spiced cider enhances the fall vibe and brings out the apple notes in the cake.
6. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, serving alongside rich chocolate mousse creates a delightful dessert duo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your apple spice cake, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much apple cider can make your cake dense. Measure carefully and follow the recipe closely.

• Not Grating the Apples Properly: If the apples are not grated finely or if they retain too much moisture, it can affect the texture. Always squeeze out excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to a tough cake. Gently fold in the dry ingredients and grated apples until just combined.

• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your loaf pan can result in a cake that sticks. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer if needed to ensure accuracy.

• Not Cooling Completely Before Glazing: Glazing a warm cake can cause the glaze to melt off. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any frosting or glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious apple spice cake recipe:

What makes this Apple Spice Cake Recipe unique?

This recipe stands out due to its perfect blend of spices and fresh apples, creating a delightful flavor that captures the essence of fall.

Can I customize this Apple Spice Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even swap apples for pears if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with spices as well!

How do I ensure my Apple Spice Cake stays moist?

Make sure not to overbake! Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean but not dry. Also, using freshly grated apples adds moisture.

What is the best way to serve Apple Spice Cake?

This cake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Can I make this Apple Spice Cake Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and use dairy-free yogurt for added moisture if desired.

Final Thoughts

This apple spice cake recipe combines warm spices and fresh apple flavors that are perfect for any occasion. It’s versatile enough to suit various tastes—feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a slice of autumn bliss!