Apple Butter Spice Cake Recipe

Apple Butter Spice Cake is a warm, cozy dessert that’s perfect for fall or any time you crave the comforting flavors of apple and spice. Made with apple butter, warm spices, and a tender crumb, this cake is moist and full of flavor. It’s easy to make and can be served as a simple snack cake or dressed up with cream cheese frosting for a special occasion.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple butter
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until well combined.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and apple butter until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 8: Frost the Cake (Optional)

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Apple Butter: Use homemade or store-bought apple butter for this recipe. The apple butter adds moisture and a deep apple flavor to the cake.
• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Variations

• Spiced Glaze: Instead of cream cheese frosting, drizzle the cake with a simple spiced glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and a pinch of cinnamon.
• Nutty Apple Butter Cake: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Bundt Cake Version: Bake the cake in a greased Bundt pan for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Apple Butter Cupcakes: Divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes for individual servings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and frost it just before serving.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

3. Can I Freeze Apple Butter Spice Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

4. Can I Use Applesauce Instead of Apple Butter?

Apple butter has a thicker consistency and deeper flavor compared to applesauce, but you can substitute it if needed. The flavor will be milder, and the texture may be slightly different.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Cup of Tea: Enjoy a slice with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream instead of frosting for a lighter option.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle the frosted cake with a bit of cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness and spice.
• Holiday Dessert: This cake makes a wonderful addition to a holiday dessert spread, especially in the fall.

Apple Butter Spice Cake is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb, rich apple butter flavor, and warm spices, this cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you enjoy it with a simple glaze or topped with creamy frosting, it’s a treat that captures the cozy essence of homemade baking. Give this recipe a try, and savor the comforting flavors of apple and spice!