Apple Spice Cake

Apple spice cake is the ultimate fall comfort dessert, blending the warmth of aromatic spices with the natural sweetness of apples. This cake is a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The apples provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves add a warming spice that complements the fruit perfectly. A touch of brown sugar gives it a rich, caramel-like undertone, making every bite an indulgent experience.

Perfect for any occasion, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that brings the flavors of autumn right into your kitchen. It’s easy to make and fills your home with a delightful, inviting scent. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream or just on its own with a hot cup of coffee.

Why is it called spice cake?

Spice cake gets its name from the blend of aromatic spices used in its batter. Ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves give the cake its distinctive warm and fragrant flavor. These spices are the hallmark of a traditional spice cake, providing a comforting and inviting taste that’s especially popular in fall and winter desserts.

Ingredients for Apple Spice Cake

Cake:

• Honeycrisp apples: These apples add a sweet and tart flavor that add to the cake’s natural sweetness and moisture.
• Sugar: This provides the primary sweetness for the cake.
• Canola oil: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
• Eggs: These bind the cake together and provide structure to the cake.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall sweetness.
• All-purpose flour: Flour provides the structure for the cake, giving it necessary texture.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A seasonal blend of warm spices that gives the cake its aromatic flavor.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the cake, balancing the sweetness.
• Toasted walnuts: Nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the cake.

Cream cheese frosting:

• Cream cheese: This ingredient provides a tangy, creamy base for the frosting.
• Butter: This adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
• Confectioners’ sugar: This sugar sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth and creamy.
• Brown sugar: This sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the frosting. Dark brown sugar gives the frosting a richer, more intense caramel flavor. 
• Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• Pumpkin pie spice: This spice adds warm, aromatic notes that mimic the cake batter.
• Chopped walnuts: When toasted, these nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Prep the pans

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Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line the bottoms of two greased 9-inch round baking pans with parchment paper, then grease the parchment paper. 

Step 2: Prepare the apples

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Place the apples in a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped. 

Step 3: Mix the wet ingredients

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla until the mixture is well blended. 

Step 4: Combine the dry and wet ingredients

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder and salt. Gradually beat this dry mixture into the sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir in the finely chopped apples and walnuts. 

Editor’s Tip: Be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.

Step 5: Bake the cake

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Transfer the batter to the prepared pans. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Remove the parchment paper and let the cakes cool completely. 

Step 6: Prepare the frosting

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, confectioners’ sugar, brown sugar, vanilla and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture is smooth. 

Editor’s Tip: For extra smooth frosting, sift the confectioners’ sugar before adding it to the mixture.

Step 7: Assemble the cake

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Spread the frosting between each layer, as well as over the top and sides. Gently press the chopped walnuts into the frosting on the top of the cake. Refrigerate any leftovers. 

Editor’s Tip: For a cleaner finish, apply a thin crumb coat of frosting first. Chill the cake for 15 minutes, then apply the remaining frosting. This helps prevent crumbs from mixing into the outer layer of frosting.

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Apple Spice Cake Variations

• Make some cupcakes: Divide the batter into a muffin pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes for individual servings.
• Add a cinnamon sugar topping: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the top of the batter before baking.
• Incorporate dried fruits: Mix in 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for additional flavor and toothsome texture.

How to Store Apple Spice Cake

Store any leftover apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.

Can you freeze apple spice cake?

Yes, you can freeze apple spice cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How do you reheat apple spice cake?

To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes.

Apple Spice Cake Tips

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What apples are best for apple spice cake?

A combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples works well. The Granny Smith apples provide a tart flavor, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness and texture.

Where is apple cake from?

Apple cake is a popular dessert originating in Europe.

Can I use oil instead of butter in apple spice dump cake?

Yes, you can swap out an equal amount of vegetable oil for the butter. This will make the cake even more moist.

How can I make my apple spice cake healthier?

Reduce the sugar by half and use whole wheat flour for a healthier version. Adding some grated carrots or zucchini can also boost the nutritional value.