Welcome to my culinary nook at EasyChocolateCake.net, where I’m excited to share one of my favorite recipes: Apple Spice Cake with Buttercream Frosting. Inspired by cherished memories in the kitchen, this recipe combines the warmth of fall spices with the joy of baking. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a special gathering, this cake is sure to be a delightful treat. Let’s dive right into the charming journey of crafting this mouthwatering dessert, starting with how this cake became a staple in my home.
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Apple Spice Cake with Buttercream Frosting
- Total Time: 41 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Apple Spice Cake infused with warm spices and topped with creamy buttercream frosting, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/2 cup fresh-pressed sweet apple cider
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup vegan butter (for frosting)
- 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups sifted powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice (for frosting)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, apple pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the almond milk, apple cider, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the buttercream frosting, beat the vegan butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the apple pie spice and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top generously with the buttercream frosting.
- Slice and serve, enjoying the rich flavors and textures.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can customize by adding nuts or diced apples for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: apple spice cake, fall dessert, buttercream frosting, cozy baking, family recipes
The Story & Intro
Growing up, every autumn afternoon, the scent of cinnamon and baked apples would fill my home. I vividly remember my mother pulling her famous Apple Spice Cake from the oven, the golden brown top dusted with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. It was more than just a cake to us; it was a cherished family tradition. We’d gather at the kitchen table, laughter echoing as we shared stories about our day, with each slice of cake bringing us closer together. That’s the magic of Apple Spice Cake — it’s comfort and nostalgia wrapped in one delicious treat, and it often plays a central role in our gatherings. As I grew older, I realized how easy it was to recreate that joy in my own kitchen. The warmth it brought to my family and the conversations it inspired became a light guiding my culinary journey.
Today, I’m here to share my version of this beloved classic, emphasizing simple ingredients, effortless techniques, and, most importantly, love as the secret ingredient. My hope is that this Apple Spice Cake with Buttercream Frosting will not just fill your home with delightful aromas but also create lasting memories at your table. Let’s explore how to make this tasty cake that seamlessly blends tradition with a modern twist.
Ingredients That Matter
To create the perfect Apple Spice Cake, it’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The base of this recipe is a blend of whole wheat flour and coconut sugar, providing a nutty and rich backdrop. The star of the show, of course, is the apple pie spice — it infuses the cake with warm, comforting notes that will transport you straight to an autumn afternoon.
You’ll need 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour, 3/4 cup coconut sugar, and 2 teaspoons apple pie spice, alongside 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for that extra warmth. Baking soda is essential here, so make sure to include 1 teaspoon to help the cake rise beautifully. A touch of salt enhances the flavors, and you’ll want 1/2 cup of almond milk for moisture, coupled with 1/2 cup of fresh-pressed sweet apple cider to really bring out the apple flavor.
Lastly, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil gives the cake a lovely richness, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract adds depth to the flavor profile. With these ingredients gathered, you’re well on your way to creating a cake that’s deliciously moist and full of flavor.
After preparing the base ingredients, it’s essential to incorporate two key elements: the right techniques for mixing and the ideal baking environment. Prepping your bakeware properly can make all the difference. I recommend using an 8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper to ensure an even bake and easy removal.
Let’s get started with the mixing process, where you’ll see how these simple ingredients come together to create a moist, delightful cake.
Mixing and Baking the Cake
Once you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to step into the mixing phase. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial — a preheated oven ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises properly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: the flour, sugar, apple pie spice, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry elements first is essential to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Make a well in the center of these dry ingredients and gently pour in your wet ingredients: the almond milk, apple cider, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together until just combined, ensuring not to overmix, as that can make your cake dense.
Once you’ve achieved a smooth consistency, pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. It’s time to bake! Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 24-26 minutes. To check for doneness, simply insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
After removing it from the oven, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before frosting, as spreading frosting on a warm cake can lead to melting and a messy appearance.
Now that we’ve got our base ready, let’s turn our attention to the frosting, which is equally important in completing this delightful Apple Spice Cake.
Preparing the Buttercream Frosting
The key to a delightful finishing touch on your Apple Spice Cake is a creamy buttercream frosting that complements the spices in the cake. Begin this process by bringing out 3/4 cup of vegan butter and letting it soften at room temperature. Using a mixer, beat the butter in a mixing bowl until it becomes smooth and creamy — this should take about 1-2 minutes.
Gradually add 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups of sifted powdered sugar into the bowl, starting with about 1/4 cup at a time. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth and fluffy consistency. You can adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on your preferred sweetness level; it’s all about making it to your taste.
Next, incorporate an extra touch of flavor with 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat the mixture again until all ingredients are well combined.
Once your cake has completely cooled, it’s time for the fun part — frosting! Use a spatula to spread the buttercream generously over the top of the cake. You can get creative here, swirling or smoothing it as you prefer.
For serving, slice the cake into squares and enjoy the rich, soft texture paired with the creamy, spiced frosting. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge; just be sure to enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best taste.
Enjoying Your Apple Spice Cake
Once your Apple Spice Cake is beautifully frosted and ready to serve, the joy truly begins. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor the delightful flavors and aromas — this cake brings warmth and connection.
This recipe is versatile too! You can serve it with a side of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that your guests will rave about. Consider pairing your cake with a cup of warm tea or coffee; the spiced flavors harmonize beautifully with these beverages.
For those who enjoy variations, try adding walnuts or pecans for a crunch or even mixing in diced apples within the batter for an even fruitier cake. You may also experiment with the frosting by incorporating cream cheese for a tangy twist, or opt for a simple glaze if you’re looking for less sweetness.
Ultimately, this Apple Spice Cake with Buttercream Frosting is about creating not just a delicious dessert but also memories. Share it at birthday parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy weeknight dinner. Remember, every slice carries with it the warmth and love of the kitchen, just as those cherished afternoons filled with laughter used to.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, feel free to substitute all-purpose flour if you prefer. Just note that it may change the flavor slightly.
2. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
3. Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
4. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake up to two days in advance and store it without frosting until you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Apple Spice Cake with Buttercream Frosting is more than just a recipe; it’s a bridge to old memories and new traditions. By following this recipe, you’ll not only create a delicious dessert but also create a warm atmosphere in your kitchen and dining room. Remember, the best dishes are made with love, so gather your friends and family, share stories, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic cake. Happy baking!
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