Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy flavors and the comforting aroma of freshly baked treats, you are going to fall head over heels for this Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender, spiced cake studded with luscious grated apples and topped with a dreamy, caramel-like brown sugar icing that melts into every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to brighten up an ordinary day, this cake offers warmth and sweetness wrapped in every slice that invites smiles and second helpings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in this recipe to create a cake that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each component works in harmony, from the fragrant spices that give the cake its distinctive character to the fresh apples that keep it moist and hearty.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and tenderness to the cake.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, creating a light crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give perfect lift and softness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice note essential to apple desserts.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Infuses the batter with a fragrant, slightly sweet depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Offers a sharp, aromatic hint that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the cake.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and buttery tenderness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overwhelming the spice and apple notes.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor for extra depth.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and moisture, binding all ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with its warm, floral essence.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Contributes a slight tang and tender crumb to the cake.
• 2 cups peeled, cored, and grated apples (preferably Granny Smith): The star ingredient, bringing freshness, texture, and natural sweetness.
• Brown Sugar Icing Ingredients: 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted — these create a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the spiced apple cake.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your cake releases easily and bakes evenly. This simple prep sets the stage for baking success.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This combination blends the spices evenly throughout the cake and guarantees a perfectly spiced bite every time.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 minutes. This step aerates your batter, helping the cake rise with a tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra warmth and a rich aroma. This stage brings moisture and richness to your batter.

Step 5: Combine Flour Mixture and Buttermilk

Alternately add the dry flour mixture and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix gently just until combined to keep the cake tender and soft without overworking the batter.

Step 6: Fold in the Grated Apples

Gently fold the grated apples into the batter using a spatula. The grated apples add moisture, texture, and bursts of fresh apple flavor that make this cake truly special.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack—this is crucial before adding the icing so it sets perfectly.

Step 8: Make the Brown Sugar Icing

For the luscious brown sugar icing, combine brown sugar, butter, and milk in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil, then remove from heat. Add vanilla, then whisk in sifted powdered sugar until you get a smooth, pourable glaze.

Step 9: Ice the Cake

Pour the warm icing evenly over the cooled cake and spread gently with a spatula. Let it set for about 15 minutes before slicing to enjoy that perfect balance of sweet, creamy topping and moist cake beneath.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe truly shine, consider sprinkling the top with a pinch of chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon for an extra special touch. A few thin apple slices fanned on the side also add a pretty, fresh garnish.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A hot cup of spiced tea or coffee enhances the warm flavors, making your treat feel indulgent and cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn this classic cake into individual servings by baking it as cupcakes or in mini loaf pans? Drizzle extra brown sugar icing on top and add a small apple slice or cinnamon stick for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once iced, wrap leftover apple cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and delicious. Refrigeration is not necessary unless your kitchen is very warm.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake without icing by wrapping it well in plastic and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and prepare the brown sugar icing fresh before serving for best results.

Reheating

If you prefer your apple spice cake a little warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back that freshly baked feel and softens the icing to a delightful gooey consistency.

FAQs

Can I substitute the apples with another fruit?

While this recipe shines with Granny Smith apples due to their tartness and texture, you can experiment with pears or a mix of apples and pears for a slightly different but delicious variation.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! Simply add 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a homemade buttermilk substitute that works just as well.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, but be sure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the cake’s texture tender and moist.

Can I prepare the brown sugar icing ahead of time?

Although best poured warm over the cake, you can make the brown sugar icing a few hours in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, then gently warm it before spreading to maintain that perfect pourable consistency.

How do I keep the grated apples from browning before adding them?

To prevent the apples from oxidizing and turning brown, toss them with a little lemon juice right after grating. This keeps their color fresh and the flavor bright in your cake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of homemade Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe, and now you have everything you need to make it your new favorite. This cake’s perfect balance of warm spices, fresh apples, and luscious brown sugar icing will bring smiles and cozy moments to any day. Don’t wait to treat yourself and those you love to this delicious classic—it’s a kitchen hug in cake form!

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