Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Cozy Fall Treat

Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. Packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and dotted with fresh apple chunks, this cake is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. Topped with a tangy and luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s an irresistible treat for any autumn occasion—from casual family dinners to festive holiday celebrations.

This cake captures the comforting essence of fall in every bite. The spices complement the natural sweetness of the apples, while the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, slightly tart balance. It’s easy to make, yet impressive enough to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.

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Ingredients

For the Apple Spice Cake

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Baking powder	2 tsp
Baking soda	1/2 tsp
Ground cinnamon	2 tsp
Ground nutmeg	1/2 tsp
Ground ginger	1/4 tsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar (packed)	1/2 cup
Vegetable oil	1/2 cup
Applesauce	1/2 cup
Eggs	2 large
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Fresh apples (peeled, diced)	1 1/2 cups

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredient	Quantity
Cream cheese (softened)	8 oz
Unsalted butter (softened)	4 tbsp
Powdered sugar	2 cups
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

The combination of fresh apples and applesauce ensures the cake stays moist, while the warm spices bring out the best of autumn flavors.

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Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowls: For preparing the wet and dry ingredients.
2. 9×13-inch baking pan: Perfect for creating a simple, single-layer cake.
3. Electric mixer: Ensures a smooth batter and lump-free frosting.
4. Spatula: For folding in the apples and spreading the frosting evenly.
5. Peeler and knife: To peel and dice the apples.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula. The batter will be thick.

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2. Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

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3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.

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4. Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula.
2. Garnish with chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.

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Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
• Use freshly peeled and diced apples for the best flavor and texture. Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet apples like Honeycrisp work well.
• Don’t skip the applesauce—it adds moisture and enhances the apple flavor without making the cake dense.

Creative Variations

• Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosted cake for extra indulgence.
• Apple Spice Cupcakes: Divide the batter into a muffin tin for individual portions. Adjust the baking time to 20–25 minutes.
• Nutty Apple Spice Cake: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts into the batter for added crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly dessert.

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Serving Suggestions

Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Slice into squares or rectangles and arrange on a festive platter. Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon for an elegant touch.

Pair it with warm beverages like spiced chai, hot apple cider, or a pumpkin spice latte for a cozy fall dessert experience. For a decadent pairing, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet evening with family, this cake is a comforting and crowd-pleasing choice.

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Storage and Reheating

Short-Term Storage

• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Long-Term Storage

• Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds before serving.

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Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	320
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	44g
Protein	3g
Sugars	28g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a dessert that captures the flavors and spirit of fall in every bite. Its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting make it a must-try for any apple lover. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home, this cake is sure to impress.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family. Pair it with your favorite fall beverages, and let the cozy, comforting flavors make your day extra special!

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