Apple Spice Cake with Buttercream Frosting
Creating a twist on a classic apple spice cake is truly a delightful experience. The warm spices and freshness of apples evoke a sense of comfort that many of us can relate to, especially during cozy family gatherings. This article will guide you through not just the recipe, but the feelings and memories that come with baking this flavorful treat. By sharing tips and insights, I aim to inspire you to whip up this delicious cake. Whether a novice or seasoned baker, you’ll find great joy in bringing this cake to life in your kitchen.
The Story & Intro
When I think about my childhood, one of my fondest memories is of my grandmother baking apple spice cake in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, wrapping us in warmth like a beloved blanket. Every time she pulled the cake from the oven, it was a moment of magic. The joy on our faces was a testament to how food brings people together. This apple spice cake recipe combines that nostalgic flavor with a modern twist, thanks to a delicious buttercream frosting. It’s my way of keeping my grandmother’s spirit alive, sharing the love that can only be created in the kitchen. I want you to experience the same warmth and excitement that comes from baking this delightful dessert.
The apple spice cake serves as the perfect comfort food, making it ideal for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to a grand celebration. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through each slice. This apple spice cake with buttercream frosting is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy cooking and to celebrate the simple, yet profound moments in life.
The Perfect Blend of Ingredients
For this apple spice cake, you’ll need to gather up some essential ingredients that you might already have on hand. First off, grab 1½ cups of whole wheat flour, which gives the cake a lovely nuttiness. Pair that with ¾ cup of coconut sugar for natural sweetness and a bit of caramel-like flavor. The star of the flavor show is the 2 teaspoons of apple pie spice, making this cake resonate with the comforting essence of fall.
Next, add in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of baking soda for that delightful rise and warmth. A pinch of ½ teaspoon of salt helps balance all the sweet flavors. For the liquid joy, include ½ cup of unsweetened almond milk and ½ cup of fresh-pressed sweet apple cider, which really enhances the apple flavor in this cake. Bring in richness with ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil and round it all out with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that aromatic touch.
Before you start the mixing process, ensure your ingredients are measured properly—spoon and level the flour and sift the powdery sugar. Following these tips will make your cake fluffy and light. The ingredient combination in this apple spice cake with buttercream frosting is all about balance, bringing together healthy and indulgent elements seamlessly.
Whipping Up the Cake Batter
To start the baking process, preheat your oven to 350°F and get an 8-inch square baking pan ready by lining it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the previously gathered flour, coconut sugar, apple pie spice, baking soda, and salt. This mix is where all the dry flavors unite beautifully. You’re going to create a well in the center of the dry ingredients for the batter.
Now, pour the almond milk, apple cider, olive oil, and vanilla extract into that well. Stir everything together gently until combined; just don’t over mix it, or you’ll risk losing that fluffy texture we’re aiming for. Next, pour the batter into the prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for 24-26 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Once it’s done, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial for making the frosting easier to spread. Speaking of frosting, while the cake is cooling, it’s time to turn your attention to the decadent buttercream frosting that will take your apple spice cake to the next level of indulgence.
The All-Star Buttercream Frosting
Creating the buttercream frosting is as easy as pie—pun intended! Start with ¾ cup of softened vegan butter in a mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer, cream the butter until it’s smooth and free of lumps. Now, for the magic touch: Gradually add in sifted powdered sugar, about ¼ cup at a time. This ensures that your frosting is both fluffy and sweet, so adjust the quantity according to your preference.
Once the frosting reaches your desired sweetness, throw in 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of that beloved flavor. Beat everything together until it’s fully incorporated, creating a beautifully creamy texture.
Now, it’s finally time to spread that luscious frosting over the cooled apple spice cake. Use a spatula to generously cover the top, making sure every bite will have that delightful creaminess. Slice your masterpiece and serve it up, and don’t forget: any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoyed within 3-4 days.
Tips for Success and Serving Suggestions
Baking an apple spice cake with buttercream frosting is more than just following a recipe. It’s about creating something special, so keep a few tips in mind to ensure you nail it every time. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, as this promotes even distribution and aids in achieving that fluffy texture.
Feel free to personalize your cake! Try adding finely chopped nuts or currants for an additional flavor twist. And if you’re short on time, consider making the cake a day in advance; wrapping it in plastic wrap will keep it moist.
Serving suggestions can elevate your dessert experience. Consider pairing your slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the spices. A sprinkle of extra apple pie spice on top makes for a delightful finishing touch, both visually and flavorfully. Enjoy sharing this nostalgic cake with loved ones and let it spark new memories tied to your kitchen adventures.
FAQs
What can I use instead of coconut sugar?
You can substitute coconut sugar with brown sugar or granulated white sugar, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I add nuts to the apple spice cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make excellent additions, adding a nice crunch to the soft cake.
How should I store leftover apple spice cake?
Store any uneaten cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for 3-4 days.
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can easily replace almond milk with any milk alternative or regular dairy milk; both will work just as well.
Conclusion
Making this apple spice cake with buttercream frosting brings back memories and creates new ones worth cherishing. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a personal treat, this recipe combines the comfort of classic flavors with a touch of innovation. So, don’t hesitate to try it out in your own kitchen; with every slice, you’ll be savoring not just a cake but a story—yours to tell with every bite.
Apple Spice Cake with Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1.5 cups whole wheat flour Spoon and level for accuracy.
- 0.75 cups coconut sugar Can be substituted with brown sugar or granulated sugar.
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice Provides a comforting fall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda For rising.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
- 0.5 cups unsweetened almond milk Can be replaced with any milk alternative.
- 0.5 cups fresh-pressed apple cider Enhances apple flavor.
- 0.25 cups extra virgin olive oil Adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For aromatic touch.
For the Buttercream Frosting
- 0.75 cups softened vegan butter Ensure it is at room temperature.
- 1 cups powdered sugar Sifted for a fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice Adds depth to the frosting.
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, apple pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
Make the Cake Batter
- Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add almond milk, apple cider, olive oil, and vanilla extract.
- Gently stir until combined, being careful not to over mix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened vegan butter until smooth.
- Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, about ¼ cup at a time, until fluffy.
- Mix in apple pie spice and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Frost and Serve
- Spread the frosting generously over the cooled apple spice cake.
- Slice and serve, optionally pairing with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.