Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite Fall cake. The Apple Spice Cake Recipe combines fresh apple flavor with a delightful mix of warm spices. This moist cake is perfect for cozy gatherings, making it an excellent choice for any occasion from holiday dinners to casual afternoon tea. With its inviting aroma and delicious taste, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flavor: This cake showcases the best of fall with the taste of fresh apples and warming spices.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can create a beautiful cake.
• Perfectly Moist: The addition of apple cider and grated apples keeps this cake wonderfully moist.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as a sweet treat on its own or serve it with a scoop of ice cream for an added delight.
• Glaze It Up: A drizzle of cinnamon glaze elevates the flavor and presentation.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Apple Spice Cake Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools help streamline the process, ensuring your cake comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, resulting in fluffy batter.
• Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and easy removal with parchment paper lining.
• Mixing bowls: A must for combining dry ingredients separately before adding to wet ingredients.

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Ingredients

For the Cake

• 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, ensuring it hangs over the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In your 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 and Vanilla

Add in the eggs one at a time:
* Mix until fully incorporated after each addition.
* Finally, add in the vanilla extract and combine well.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add dry ingredients into the butter mixture:
* Alternate with adding in the apple cider. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Apples

Remove the mixing bowl from your stand mixer:
* Use a large spatula to gently fold in the grated apple.
* Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

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

Step 8: Cool Before Glazing

Once baked:
* Allow your cake to cool in its pan for about 15 minutes.
* Carefully remove it using parchment overhangs and let it cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

This Apple Spice Cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. Its warm spices and fresh apple flavor make it perfect for gatherings, coffee breaks, or cozy evenings at home. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Cinnamon Glaze

• Drizzle a simple cinnamon glaze over the cake for added sweetness and flavor. The glaze complements the spices beautifully.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Serve slices of the cake with a dollop of whipped cream. The lightness of the cream balances the richness of the cake.

Accompany with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream alongside the warm cake creates a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Pair this cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage enhances the cozy flavors in the cake.

Garnish with Fresh Apples

• Top each slice with thin apple slices for an extra fruity touch. This adds freshness and visual appeal to your presentation.

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: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Grate Apples Properly: Grate apples and press them between paper towels to remove excess moisture, preventing a soggy cake.
• Don’t Overmix: When folding in the grated apples, do so gently to maintain a light texture in your cake.
• Check Baking Time: Ovens vary; check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid over-baking.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any glaze to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Spice Cake Recipe

This flavorful Apple Spice Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its taste. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the spices in the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: Pairing with cheeses like sharp cheddar provides a savory contrast to the sweet flavors.
3. Nuts or Trail Mix: Serve mixed nuts or trail mix as a crunchy side option that offers additional textures.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit create a creamy side that enhances the dessert experience.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over slices brings a rich sweetness that pairs well with spiced flavors.
6. Chai Tea: A cup of chai tea, infused with spices similar to those in the cake, makes for a comforting beverage choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Spice Cake Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor of your cake.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can result in a dense cake. Be sure to let them sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Adding too much flour can lead to a dry cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Overmixing the batter: This can develop gluten and make your cake tough. Mix just until combined and then gently fold in the grated apples.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Removing the cake too soon from the pan can cause it to break. Let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
• Using unpeeled grated apples: The skin can add bitterness to your cake. Always peel and grate your apples before adding them to the batter.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Apple Spice Cake Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for best results.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Apple Spice Cake Recipe

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Apple Spice Cake Recipe that might help you while baking.

Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Spice Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can use any variety of apple you prefer, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work great.

How do I make my Apple Spice Cake more flavorful?

Consider adding nuts or raisins along with the grated apples. You can also increase the spice measurements slightly for a bolder flavor.

Can I substitute other liquids for apple cider?

Absolutely! You can use apple juice or even a light fruit vinegar if you want a different taste.

How should I store leftover Apple Spice Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you want them fresh longer.

Is this Apple Spice Cake suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! Its warm spices and moist texture make it perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or just as a cozy treat at home.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different spices, nuts, or fruits based on your preferences. Make sure to try this comforting cake during fall; it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!