This apple cake is a wonderfully moist, spiced dessert that’s perfect for fall or any time you want a comforting, flavorful cake. Made with puréed apples or applesauce, this cake has a soft, tender crumb and is filled with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Topped with a rich, smooth cream cheese frosting, it’s the ultimate combination of cozy flavors. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or simply as a weekend treat, this apple cake will be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple cake is perfectly spiced and deliciously moist, thanks to the addition of puréed apples. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives the cake a warm, fragrant flavor, making it ideal for cozy fall days. Topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake becomes an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Plus, it’s easy to make, with just a few simple steps.
Perfect Occasion
This apple cake is perfect for any autumn gathering, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or just enjoying a treat with family. It’s also a great option for potlucks, as it’s easy to transport and always a crowd favorite. The cozy flavors of apples and spices make it an ideal dessert for cooler weather, but it’s so good you’ll want to make it year-round!
Decoration Tips
To decorate, you can use food-safe flowers or a sprig of greenery as mentioned in the recipe, making sure to wrap the stems to keep them clean. You can also add a light dusting of cinnamon over the frosting for a warm, rustic look. For a more festive touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top.
For the Cake:
- 1 1/4 cups (159g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup (148ml) vegetable oil or neutral oil of your choice
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (227g) puréed apples or unsweetened applesauce (drain if watery)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line the bottom of an 8-inch square cake pan with parchment paper and grease and flour the sides. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. - Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla until well combined. Stir in the puréed apples or applesauce until fully incorporated. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. - Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 28-33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 10 tablespoons (142g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (361g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract
- 1/2-1 tsp heavy cream
- 1 pinch fine sea salt
Instructions:
- Make the Frosting:
In a large bowl, stir the softened cream cheese with a spatula until smooth. Beat in the butter on low speed using an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. - Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and heavy cream. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined. Use a spatula to gently stir the frosting and remove any air bubbles, creating a smooth texture.
Decorate the Cake:
Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. If desired, use food-safe flowers or greenery to decorate, or add a light dusting of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Enjoy!
This apple cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect balance of sweet, spiced flavors and creamy, rich frosting. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!