Apple Spice Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a warm, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the aromas of fall and holiday cheer, you’re going to adore this Apple Spice Cake Recipe. I absolutely love how this cake strikes the perfect balance between moist, tender cake and the rich, cozy spices that make every slice feel like a hug. Plus, the homemade caramel drizzle takes it over the top—you’ll find your family (and friends!) begging for seconds once they try it.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Spice Cake Recipe comes from fresh apples paired with a medley of warm spices that blend beautifully into the tender crumb. When shopping, pick apples that are crisp and slightly tart like Honeycrisp — they hold their shape nicely and add a natural sweetness.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure without weighing it down.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice in this recipe, it brings warm sweetness and depth.
• Ginger: Adds a subtle zing that cuts through the sweetness.
• Nutmeg: Just a touch gives that signature autumnal flavor.
• Allspice: Enhances the complexity of the spice profile.
• Ground cloves: A pinch goes a long way for that classic cozy touch.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with sweet, creamy notes.
• Baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly, making it light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Coconut oil: Melted into the cake, it adds moisture and a subtle richness.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and soft.
• Plain yogurt: Adds a bit of tang and extra moisture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake; I use regular granulated sugar for a fine crumb.
• Large eggs: For that structure and richness that holds everything together.
• Apples: Fresh and diced, they bring juicy bursts and texture; Honeycrisp is my favorite, but Granny Smith works well too.
• Confectioner’s sugar: For the buttery frosting.
• Butter (room temperature): Adds creaminess and helps the frosting hold its shape.
• Cream: Used in both frosting and caramel for richness.
• Brown sugar: Brings a deep molasses flavor to the caramel drizzle.
• Unsalted butter (for caramel): Creates that glossy, velvety texture in the drizzle.
• Half and half or cream: For the smooth caramel finish.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the caramel’s sweetness perfectly.

Variations

One of the best parts about this Apple Spice Cake Recipe is how flexible it is. I often tweak spices or swap apples based on what I have, so don’t hesitate to personalize it to your liking!

• Gluten-Free Option: I once used a gluten-free flour blend, and it worked surprisingly well—just keep an eye on the texture since it can vary by brand.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to dial up the ginger or add a dash of cardamom for a slightly different spice twist that keeps things exciting.
• Fruit Swaps: Pears or even chopped dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can add nice variation if you want to mix things up.
• Vegan Version: I experimented with flax eggs and dairy-free yogurt, and it turns out quite tasty, though the texture is a bit denser.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. While the oven warms up, core and chop your apples into about half-inch pieces. I like to keep the skins on for extra texture and nutrients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, baking soda, and salt. This ensures all those wonderful spices are evenly distributed, so every bite tastes consistent.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, coconut oil (melted), vegetable oil, and yogurt until smooth and creamy. This combo is what keeps your cake fabulously moist—a trick I discovered after too many dry attempts!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, folding gently just until combined. Then fold in those chopped apples. Be careful not to overmix here—you want the batter light and airy to get that tender crumb.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 35 minutes, but start checking at 30 minutes—insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re golden. Overbaking is a common mistake, so keep an eye on it!

Step 6: Make the Creamy Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the room-temperature butter with confectioner’s sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add cream and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. It’s luscious and not too sweet—a beautiful balance to those spicy apples.

Step 7: Prepare the Caramel Drizzle

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter with brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. Slowly stir in the cream and vanilla, then simmer gently until the mixture thickens slightly. Add a pinch of salt to cut through the sweetness—trust me, it makes a huge difference!

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then generously drizzle the warm caramel sauce on top. I like to let the caramel set for a few minutes before slicing—it gives that wonderful gooey finish that makes every forkful irresistible.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the caramel drizzle—it adds a lovely crunch and nutty contrast that’s pure magic. A light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar over the frosting also gives a pretty finish.

Side Dishes

Pair your apple spice cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent twist. For a cozy café vibe, a hot chai latte or spiced coffee complement the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve decorated the cake for holiday parties with edible flowers and fresh apple slices arranged on top for an elegant, rustic look. You could also make mini cupcakes with the same batter—just adjust baking times accordingly—and drizzle with caramel sauce for adorable bite-sized treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover apple spice cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap then inside an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist without drying out. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration also works fine, just let the cake come to room temp before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake without the frosting and caramel for up to 2 months. I usually slice it, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To refresh leftovers, gently warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes. Add fresh caramel drizzle or frosting if needed for that fresh-from-the-kitchen vibe.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Apple Spice Cake Recipe is one of my go-to desserts whenever I want to impress but keep things homey and familiar. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks conversation, fills your kitchen with nostalgic scents, and wins hearts at every gathering. I can’t wait for you to try it—don’t forget the caramel drizzle! Trust me, once you do, it’ll become your family’s cherished classic, just like it is mine.

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