If you are craving a fall-inspired treat that bursts with cozy flavors, this Apple Spice Cake Recipe is the perfect choice to warm your heart and delight your taste buds. With tender grated apples mingling beautifully with a blend of fragrant spices and a luscious brown sugar icing melting into every bite, this cake is truly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to add a touch of autumn magic to your day, this Apple Spice Cake Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to desserts.

The image shows a single square piece of cake placed on a white plate with a thin dark rim. The cake has two distinct layers: the bottom layer is thick, light brown, and crumbly with a moist texture containing small bits, while the top layer is a smooth, creamy light tan frosting. On top of the frosting, there are two thin slices of red apple with yellowish skin placed at the center. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a whole red apple blurred in the background, creating a warm, cozy setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Apple Spice Cake Recipe plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the aromatic spices to the golden grated apples, each item contributes to that inviting warmth and moist crumb you’ll love.

All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): This forms the perfect soft yet sturdy base for the cake to hold all its fluffy goodness.
Baking soda (1 1/2 tsp): Essential for a gentle rise that keeps the cake tender and light.
Salt (1 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the warm spice flavors.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): The star spice that delivers that classic comforting apple cake aroma.
Ground ginger (1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle zing that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp): Brings a cozy earthiness that deepens the spice profile.
Ground allspice (1/2 tsp): Contributes complex sweet and peppery undertones.
Ground cloves (1/8 tsp): Just a pinch gives a fragrant punch without overpowering.
Vegetable oil (2/3 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender without heaviness.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add richness.
Brown sugar, packed (3/4 cup): Adds moistness and deep caramel notes.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Balances the sweetness and aids in the perfect crumb.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Contributes tanginess and moisture for a luscious texture.
Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a smooth, warm sweetness.
Honey crispy apples (2-3 large, grated, about 1 1/2 cups): Fresh grated apples bring moisture, freshness, and authentic apple texture. Keeping the skin adds a lovely color contrast and nutrients.
Salted butter (1/4 cup): The base for the rich brown sugar icing.
Dark brown sugar for icing (1/2 cup): Deeply flavorful and perfectly caramelized in the glaze.
Heavy cream (2 Tbsp): Adds silkiness and richness to the icing.
Pure vanilla extract for icing (1/2 tsp): Brightens the glaze with a sweet hint.
Powdered sugar (1 cup, sifted): Creates the smooth, glossy texture of the icing.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch light-colored nonstick pan with parchment paper. This step is crucial so your beautiful cake lifts right out of the pan without sticking or breaking, making your efforts all the more satisfying.

Step 2: Mix Together Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and all your warm spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Combining the spices evenly here ensures every bite of the Apple Spice Cake Recipe is fragrant and balanced.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. This mixture brings richness, moisture, and just enough sweetness to carry the flavors harmoniously.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and gently fold them together just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and soft.

Step 5: Fold in Grated Apples

Now for the star of the show: the freshly grated honey crispy apples. Fold them evenly into the batter so every slice bursts with moist, juicy apple bits and natural sweetness, which also helps keep the cake wonderfully tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smooth the surface, and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Brown Sugar Icing

While the cake is cooling, melt the salted butter, dark brown sugar, and heavy cream together in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil, which will create a deeply flavorful, silky-smooth icing base. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla and sifted powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 8: Ice Your Apple Spice Cake

Pour the warm glaze over the cake while it’s still slightly warm, allowing the icing to melt beautifully into every nook and cranny. This final touch takes the Apple Spice Cake Recipe from delicious to truly irresistible.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake Recipe

The image shows several square pieces of a light brown cake with a smooth layer of tan frosting spread evenly on top of each piece. The cake layer looks soft and slightly crumbly with visible small air pockets. A few pieces are decorated with thin slices of red and yellow apple placed on the frosting. One piece is turned on its side to show the texture inside. The cake pieces rest on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For extra charm and texture, sprinkle some chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the icing right after pouring. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a few fresh thin apple slices can also brighten the presentation, giving a rustic, homey feel that’s perfect for this cake’s soul.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the spiced flavors and add a creamy contrast. For a cozy drink, serve with hot apple cider or a spiced chai latte to embrace the warmth of the season.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving your Apple Spice Cake Recipe in charming autumn-inspired dishes or wooden boards for that farmhouse effect. You could also cut it into smaller squares to serve as delightful tea-time treats, or layer it with whipped cream and apple slices for a stunning dessert trifle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Apple Spice Cake Recipe stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its soft texture and freshness. After that, refrigeration is best to prolong its life, especially because of the moist apples and creamy icing.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to preserve flavor and moisture for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy warm flavors again, gently reheat slices in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, or in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes wrapped in foil. This revives the tender crumb and soft melting glaze just as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this Apple Spice Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While honey crispy apples provide a lovely balance of sweetness and texture, you can substitute with Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith apples depending on whether you prefer sweeter or tangier results. Just make sure to grate them fresh for the best moisture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum to help with binding. The texture might vary slightly but the cake will still be delicious and spiced to perfection.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the cake shortly after mixing to preserve the texture and rise, as grated apples release moisture that could affect the batter if left sitting too long. However, you can prepare the icing in advance and store it in the fridge.

How can I make the icing thicker or thinner?

If you want a thicker icing, gradually add more powdered sugar while whisking. For a thinner glaze, add a little extra heavy cream or warm milk to loosen it up just enough to drizzle.

What is the best way to grate the apples for the cake?

Use the large holes on a box grater to create tender, juicy apple shreds that blend perfectly into the batter. Keeping the skin on adds color and nutrients, but you can peel them if preferred for a smoother texture.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Apple Spice Cake Recipe is like inviting a warm hug from the inside out—it’s simple, comforting, and every slice feels like a celebration of cozy autumn days. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake’s delightful spices and fresh apples make it a timeless favorite worth sharing with friends and family. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen!