Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing

Name: Apple Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Icing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups diced apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your baking with this delightful Apple Spice Cake, bursting with warm spices and sweet apple chunks. Topped with a rich brown sugar icing, this cake is the perfect treat for autumn gatherings or cozy family dinners. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:34:00.507Z

This Apple Spice Cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of the comforting flavors of autumn. Imagine warm spices wafting through your kitchen as you bake, creating an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.

Delicious Autumn Flavors

This Apple Spice Cake encapsulates the warm, inviting flavors of autumn with its unique blend of spices. The inclusion of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger arouses the senses and warms the soul, making it the perfect dessert as the leaves change and the air turns crisp. Each bite delivers a hint of spice that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the apples, taking your taste buds on a seasonal adventure.

The apples in the cake not only add sweetness but also provide a delightful moistness that enhances the texture. Whether you use tart Granny Smith apples for a tangy kick or sweet Fuji for more sweetness, the result is a cake that stays fresh and indulgent for days. It’s a versatile dessert that everyone can enjoy.

The Perfect Icing

What elevates this cake to another level is the rich brown sugar icing that adorns the top. Its creamy, velvety texture complements the dense cake while the flavor resonates with warmth. Brown sugar brings a hint of caramel flavor, making each bite even more irresistible. Drizzle it generously for an extra sweet touch that both kids and adults will love.

The icing is easy to prepare and sets quickly, ensuring that your cake not only looks beautiful but also tastes remarkable. As it cools, it creates a glossy finish that is visually appealing and will have everyone reaching for a second slice!

Baking Tips and Variations

To ensure your Apple Spice Cake turns out perfect each time, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale for the flour can lead to consistent results, preventing any dry or overly wet batter. Additionally, make sure not to overmix the batter once the flour is added; this will help keep your cake light and fluffy.

For those who want to customize, consider adding nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans can lend a nice crunch, while cranberries can add a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness. Experimenting with different apple varieties can also bring new dimensions to the traditional recipe, so feel free to get creative!

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups diced apples

For the Brown Sugar Icing

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar

Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix dry ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

Combine wet ingredients

In another large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until combined. Add in eggs and vanilla, mixing well.

Combine mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Make the icing

For the icing, combine brown sugar and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until melted, then add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat, add vanilla and powdered sugar, and whisk until smooth.

Finish the cake

Allow the cake to cool completely before pouring the icing over the top.

Let the cake sit for 10 minutes to allow the icing to set before serving.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Apple Spice Cake fresh, it’s best to store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully without drying out the cake. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it; just be sure to cover it well to protect it from absorbing any other smells in the fridge.

If you find yourself with leftovers, this cake actually freezes quite well. Slice it into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. You can thaw individual slices whenever you crave a warm, spiced dessert.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightfully versatile and can be served in many ways. For a casual setting, simply slice the cake and serve it as is. However, for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the flavors further.

For a truly indulgent experience, serve warm slices drizzled with the remaining brown sugar icing and a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top. This will create an eye-catching dessert that is sure to impress your guests, making it the star of any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Feel free to use your favorite apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.