Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Icing: A Perfect Fall Dessert

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with our delectable Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Icing. This dessert is a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet apples, all topped off with a creamy icing that elevates each bite. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress your guests or simply want a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. Dive into the warm, comforting flavors that only this apple spice cake can provide.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Spice Cake is a must-try for several reasons. Firstly, the combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a fragrant aroma that is sure to fill your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy fall day any time of year. The moist texture of the cake pairs perfectly with the rich, tangy cream cheese icing, creating a balance of flavors that is simply irresistible.

Furthermore, this recipe shines during holidays and family gatherings, as it captures the essence of autumn in each slice. The use of fresh apples not only enhances the cake’s moisture but also brings a natural sweetness that is hard to beat. It’s a dessert that’s both comforting and festive, making it an ultimate choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.

Context/Background

Apple Spice Cake is a traditional dessert with roots in the autumn harvest, where apples are abundant and spices were used to preserve fruit. Originating in Europe, this delightful cake has become a quintessential part of fall baking in many cultures. Over time, the addition of cream cheese icing has evolved, adding a rich layer that complements the spiced cake perfectly. The combination of flavors and textures make it a timeless classic that continues to be beloved by many.

Recipe Details

Serves: 12

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 cups diced apples
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the applesauce, eggs, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the diced apples and walnuts, if using.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
8. For the icing, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
9. Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
10. Spread the cream cheese icing over the cooled cake before serving.

Tips for Perfect Apple Spice Cake

• Use fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and moisture.
• Let the cake cool completely before icing to prevent melting.
• Add a touch of lemon zest to the icing for extra zing.
• Toast the walnuts before adding for an enhanced nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is perfect when served with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For special occasions, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its flavors. Serve as a centerpiece dessert for holiday meals or enjoy as a sweet afternoon treat.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep the cake moist, consider storing slices with a piece of wax paper between them. This cake can also be frozen without the icing for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator and add fresh icing before serving.

Final Thoughts

Capturing the essence of autumn in a dessert, the Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is an inviting and flavorful treat that’s worth making. Its rich, spiced flavors and creamy icing make it a favorite for any occasion. Don’t wait for the holidays; this cake is perfect year-round!

Recipe Notes

• For a gluten-free option, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Replace walnuts with pecans or omit completely for a nut-free version.
• Add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.