Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

If you are craving a moist and warmly spiced dessert that feels like a cozy hug from your oven, this Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe is just what you need. Filled with tender grated apples and a beautiful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake offers layers of comforting flavors that dance wonderfully with the rich, buttery brown sugar icing on top. Every bite brings together the sweetness of fresh fruit and the deep warmth of spices, making it the perfect treat for any occasion where you want to impress your friends or simply indulge yourself. Let me take you through this irresistible recipe step by step, so you can enjoy this classic delight right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simple list of ingredients fool you. Each component plays a crucial role in building the moist texture, spicy aroma, and rich taste of this cake. From the sharp tang of Granny Smith apples to the warm spices and creamy buttermilk, this combination is what makes the Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe a true showstopper.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake structure and crumb.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become light.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk for perfect leavening and tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that classic autumn warmth and aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty spiciness to deepen flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way to provide rich complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensures the cake is moist and tender with a velvety mouthfeel.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Gives the cake its sweet backbone while aiding in texture.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds molasses-like depth and moisture to the cake batter.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a sweet, fragrant undertone.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Offers a slight tang and helps create a tender crumb.
• 2 cups peeled, cored, and grated apples (preferably Granny Smith): The star ingredient that brings fresh flavor and juicy texture.

Brown Sugar Icing Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: For that caramelized sweetness in the icing.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Helps achieve the perfect icing consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, familiar note.
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Creates a silky texture and balances the brown sugar’s depth.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so your cake bakes evenly and comes out flawlessly without sticking. This small preparation step goes a long way in ensuring the perfect finish.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This combination of spices and leaveners creates the flavorful backbone of your cake, ensuring every bite has that signature warmth and the perfect rise.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This aeration is key to a cake that feels soft and tender, while the brown sugar contributes a subtle molasses undertone that’s essential to the Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract to deepen the overall aroma and sweetness.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the flour-spice mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mixing just until combined keeps the cake tender and prevents it from becoming dense—a crucial balance in this recipe.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the grated apples into the batter using a spatula. This keeps the fruit evenly distributed and preserves the delightful bursts of fresh apple flavor throughout the cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack to get ready for the luscious icing.

Step 8: Prepare the Brown Sugar Icing

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and milk. Stir continuously until it starts to boil, then remove from heat. Add vanilla extract, and gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until the icing is smooth and glossy. This rich icing perfectly complements the cozy spices of the cake.

Step 9: Ice the Cake

Pour the warm brown sugar icing over the cooled cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the icing to set for about 15 minutes, so it forms a soft yet slightly firm glaze, making each slice even more irresistible.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add contrasting textures, consider garnishing the cake with a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a few thin apple slices fanned over the top adds a charming touch that hints at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a cozy autumnal touch, a warm cup of chai tea or a cinnamon-spiced latte complements the spices perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

You can transform this cake into mini servings by baking it in muffin tins or individual ramekins and dolloping the brown sugar icing on top for a delightful twist. Alternatively, layer sliced cake with apple compote and whipped cream to create a rustic trifle that’s just as impressive and comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and flavorful. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration will help maintain freshness, though it might slightly firm the icing.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake before icing by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely and then prepare the fresh brown sugar icing for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake warm, gently reheat a slice in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This brings the spices and apple aroma alive again and makes the icing beautifully soft and melt-in-your-mouth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firm texture, you can substitute with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will make the cake slightly sweeter overall.

Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?

You can experiment by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it includes xanthan gum or similar binding agents to maintain the cake’s structure. The flavor and texture will be a little different but still delicious.

Can I prepare the brown sugar icing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the icing a few hours in advance. Keep it covered at room temperature or in the fridge, then gently warm and whisk it before pouring over the cake for a smooth finish.

What can I substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any?

To make a buttermilk substitute, simply add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will give you the tang and acidity needed for this recipe’s tender crumb.

How long can I keep the iced cake fresh?

Once iced, the cake is best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. After that, the cake may begin to dry out and the icing can lose its perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe is like inviting a warm autumn day right into your kitchen. The combination of fresh apples, fragrant spices, and luscious brown sugar icing never fails to bring smiles and comfort. Whether for a holiday gathering, a special dessert, or simply a treat to yourself, I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!

Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 25 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A moist and flavorful Apple Spice Cake infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, topped with a rich and creamy brown sugar icing. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting dessert any time of year.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups peeled, cored, and grated apples (preferably Granny Smith)

Brown Sugar Icing

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
3. Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. This step incorporates air for a lighter texture.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Add the two eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure proper incorporation. Then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
6. Incorporate apples: Gently fold the grated apples into the batter using a spatula, distributing them evenly without deflating the mixture.
7. Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
8. Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
9. Make the icing base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, and milk. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to boil, then remove from heat to prevent burning.
10. Finish the icing: Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
11. Ice the cake: Pour the brown sugar icing over the cooled cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let the icing set for about 15 minutes before slicing to allow it to firm up properly.

Notes

• Use Granny Smith apples for the best balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Make sure the cake is completely cool before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
• For a different flavor profile, try adding chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter.
• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
• If you prefer a thicker icing, reduce the milk slightly or add more powdered sugar.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American