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
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate apples: Gently fold the grated apples into the batter using a spatula, distributing them evenly without deflating the mixture.
- Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- 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.
- 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.
- Finish the icing: Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- 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
