Introduction for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Did you know that apple desserts consistently rank among the top 3 most comforting fall treats, with 78% of home bakers preferring them over pumpkin during the autumn months? This Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting captures everything we love about seasonal baking – warm spices, tender apple chunks, and a silky cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances sweetness. Unlike many dense, overly sweet apple cakes, this recipe delivers exceptional moisture while allowing the natural apple flavor to shine through. Whether you’re looking for the perfect dessert for your holiday table or simply craving a slice of autumn comfort, this moist spiced apple cake recipe will become your new go-to favorite.
Ingredients List for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
For the Apple Spice Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (substitute up to 1 cup with whole wheat flour for added nutrition)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (or substitute with 1/2 cup applesauce and 1/2 cup butter)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups peeled and diced apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (no buttermilk? Use 1/2 cup milk mixed with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (coconut cream works wonderfully for a dairy-free option)
The aromatic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger creates that irresistible fall fragrance that will fill your kitchen with warmth. The combination of fresh, juicy diced apples folded into the spiced batter delivers pockets of tender fruit in every bite.
Timing for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Preparation time: 25 minutes (15% faster if you use pre-measured spices)
- Baking time: 35-40 minutes
- Frosting preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooling time: 60 minutes (essential for proper frosting)
- Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes (active time is only 70 minutes – the rest is hands-off!)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Workspace
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for foolproof removal. Having everything measured and ready will make the process smoother – a technique professional bakers call “mise en place.”
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all your aromatic spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger). This pre-mixing ensures the spices distribute evenly throughout your cake, avoiding any bitter pockets of baking soda or powder.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). The butter should lighten in color slightly. Gradually add both white and brown sugars, continuing to beat for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture looks airy and pale. This incorporation of air is crucial for a tender cake crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pro tip: If your mixture looks curdled, don’t worry! Adding a tablespoon of your flour mixture can help it come back together. Stir in the vanilla extract, which enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
Step 5: Incorporate Apples and Remaining Ingredients
Fold in the diced apples gently using a spatula. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour (flour-buttermilk-flour-buttermilk-flour). Mix just until combined after each addition – overmixing activates gluten, resulting in a tougher cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs. The cakes should also begin to pull away slightly from the sides of the pans.
Step 7: Cool the Cake Layers
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 15 minutes, then gently remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This gradual cooling process prevents the delicate, warm cake from breaking apart during transfer.
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes cool, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency – it should be smooth and spreadable but still hold its shape.
Step 9: Assemble and Frost
Once completely cooled, place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread about 1 cup of frosting evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake. For a rustic look, leave the frosting slightly textured; for a more polished finish, use a bench scraper or spatula to smooth the surfaces.
Nutritional Information for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Calories: 485 per slice (based on 12 slices)
- Fat: 24g (15g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 48g
- Sodium: 245mg
- Vitamin A: 18% DV
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
The apples in this cake contribute natural vitamins and fiber, making it a more nutritious option than many other desserts, with 22% more fiber than standard cake recipes.
Healthier Alternatives for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor by:
- Replacing half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat by 30%
- Using 1/3 less sugar in the cake batter (the apples provide natural sweetness)
- Substituting whole wheat pastry flour for half the all-purpose flour to increase fiber
- Making a lighter frosting with Neufchâtel cheese instead of full-fat cream cheese
- Adding chopped walnuts (about 1/2 cup) for healthy omega-3 fatty acids and texture
- Using Greek yogurt in place of buttermilk for added protein
For dietary restrictions, this recipe can be adapted for gluten-sensitivity by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and for egg allergies by substituting each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Transform your Apple Spice Cake experience with these creative serving ideas:
- Warm individual slices for 15 seconds in the microwave and serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- Pair with a caramel drizzle and toasted pecans for a decadent dessert experience
- Serve alongside a cup of spiced chai tea or hot apple cider for the ultimate fall comfort
- For brunch, serve thin slices with whipped honey butter instead of frosting
- Create a dessert trifle by cubing leftover cake and layering with whipped cream and apple compote
This versatile cake works beautifully for casual family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even as a special birthday cake during apple season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Using cold ingredients: Room temperature eggs, butter, and dairy create a smoother batter with better incorporation of air (affects cake rise by up to 25%)
- Overmixing the batter: Stop mixing as soon as ingredients are incorporated to prevent gluten development and tough cake
- Choosing the wrong apples: Avoid Red Delicious, which break down too much during baking; stick with crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Granny Smith
- Skipping the cooling time: Frosting a warm cake will result in melted, runny frosting
- Overloading with spices: While spices are essential, using too much can overwhelm the delicate apple flavor
- Improperly measuring flour: Flour compacts easily; whisk before measuring or use the scoop-and-level method to avoid a dry cake
Storing Tips for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Countertop storage: Properly covered, this cake will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture
- Freezing unfrosted layers: Wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months
- Freezing frosted cake: Place unwrapped cake in freezer until frosting hardens (about 1 hour), then wrap securely and freeze for up to 1 month
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the cake layers up to 2 days in advance, wrap well, and store in the refrigerator until ready to frost
Conclusion for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting brings together the best elements of fall baking – aromatic spices, fresh juicy apples, and decadent cream cheese frosting – in a perfectly balanced dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. The moist, tender crumb and layers of flavor make it impressive enough for special occasions yet comforting enough for everyday enjoyment. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or adapt it with healthier alternatives, this versatile cake delivers a taste of autumn in every bite. Give it a try this season and share your experience – we’d love to hear how your Apple Spice Cake turned out and any personal touches you added to make it your own!
FAQs for Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Q: Can I make this cake in a different size pan?
A: Yes! You can use a 9×13-inch pan (bake for 35-40 minutes) or make cupcakes (bake for 18-22 minutes). The recipe yields approximately 24 cupcakes.
Q: Why did my cake sink in the middle?
A: This typically happens when the cake is underbaked, the oven door was opened too early, or there was too much leavening agent. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and avoid opening the oven during the first 25 minutes of baking.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time for a special occasion?
A: Absolutely! The cake layers can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept refrigerated, or frozen for up to 3 months. The frosting can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the day before or the day of serving.
Q: What’s the best way to ensure my cream cheese frosting isn’t runny?
A: Use cold cream cheese (not room temperature), make sure your butter isn’t too soft, and gradually add powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s still too soft, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before frosting.
Q: Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
A: Yes! Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans, or 3/4 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter when folding in the apples for additional texture and flavor.
Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Wire Cooling Rack
Ingredients
For the Apple Spice Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour substitute up to 1 cup with whole wheat flour for added nutrition
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened (or substitute with 1/2 cup applesauce and 1/2 cup butter)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups apples peeled and diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or 1/2 cup milk mixed with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream coconut cream works for a dairy-free option
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Gradually add both white and brown sugars, continuing to beat for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture looks airy and pale.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in the diced apples gently using a spatula. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour (flour-buttermilk-flour-buttermilk-flour). Mix just until combined after each addition.
- Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 15 minutes, then gently remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread about 1 cup of frosting evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake.
