Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake Delightful and Easy Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Welcome to your new favorite dessert: Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake! This easy recipe combines rich brown butter with fresh apples and warm spices, creating a cozy treat you can’t resist. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a sweet slice yourself, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the simple steps and tasty tips that will help you bake this delight with ease!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake

– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), browned

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup brown sugar, packed

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

– Powdered sugar for dusting

These ingredients are key to making a rich and tasty cake. The browned butter gives it a nutty flavor. The spices add warmth and aroma. Apples bring moisture and sweetness.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

– 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

You can add these ingredients for more depth. Cloves add a warm spice. Dried fruits give sweetness and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

– Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour for a gluten-free cake.

– Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar.

These swaps help fit different diets or preferences. Always adjust the baking time if you change the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Cake Pan

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure your cake bakes evenly. While the oven heats, grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This step helps the cake release easily after baking.

How to Brown Butter Correctly

To brown the butter, place it in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir it often as it melts. Keep cooking until it turns a deep golden brown and smells nutty. This process takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set this bowl aside. In another bowl, mix the cooled brown butter with brown sugar. Stir well until smooth. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.

Combining Mixtures and Preparing for Baking

Now, slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until they just come together. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake tough. Gently fold in the diced apples and walnuts if you’re using them. This adds flavor and texture.

Baking Time and Testing for Doneness

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean when the cake is ready.

Cooling and Dusting with Powdered Sugar

When the cake is done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust the top with powdered sugar. This gives it a lovely finish!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Brown Butter

To make perfect brown butter, start with unsalted butter. Use a medium saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter slowly. Stir it often. Keep an eye on the color. You want a rich golden brown. This process takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The nutty smell means it’s ready. Remove it from heat and let it cool a bit. This step adds depth to your cake.

Best Apples for Baking

For the best flavor, use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. These apples are tart and firm. They hold up well in the oven. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious. They can turn mushy and lose their shape. Dice the apples into small pieces for even baking. This helps them blend well in the cake.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Cake Baking

Measure your ingredients carefully. Too much flour can make the cake dry. Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently. Over-mixing can lead to a tough cake. Always check your oven temperature. An oven that runs hot can burn your cake. Use a toothpick to test doneness. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.

Presentation Tips for Serving the Cake

To serve, let the cake cool completely. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This makes for an extra treat. For a pretty touch, scatter extra diced apples and walnuts on top. This not only looks nice but adds flavor too.

Variations

Adding Seasonal Spices (e.g., Cloves, Allspice)

You can make your cake more festive by adding seasonal spices. Cloves and allspice bring warm, rich flavors that pair well with apples. Just add 1/4 teaspoon of cloves and 1/2 teaspoon of allspice to the dry mix. This will deepen the taste and give your cake a cozy aroma. Each bite will remind you of fall!

Alternative Mix-Ins (e.g., Dried Fruits, Chocolate)

For a fun twist, consider adding mix-ins. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can add sweetness and texture. You can use 1/2 cup of these fruits in place of or along with the apples. If you love chocolate, try adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. This creates a lovely contrast with the spices and butter.

Gluten-Free or Vegan Adaptations

If you want a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 mix for best results. For a vegan cake, replace the eggs with flax eggs. That’s one tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with two and a half tablespoons of water for each egg. Use a plant-based butter to replace the unsalted butter. Both options will keep your cake delicious and enjoyable for everyone!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Cake

To keep your cake fresh, wrap it well. Use plastic wrap or foil. Store it in a cool, dry place. If you want it to last longer, put it in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to a week this way. Be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping. This helps keep it moist and tasty.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

You can freeze your Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake for later. First, slice the cake into pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, put the slices in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. The cake can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips for Best Flavor

To enjoy your cake warm, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes. This warms it up without drying it out. You can also use a microwave. Heat a slice for about 15-20 seconds. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra joy.

FAQs

Can I make Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. Bake the cake and let it cool completely. Then wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

If you need a substitute for brown sugar, use white sugar with molasses. Mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses. This will give you a similar flavor and color. You can also use coconut sugar for a different twist.

Is it possible to make this cake in a different pan size?

Yes, you can use different pan sizes. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will be thicker and may take longer to bake. For larger pans, check for doneness sooner. Adjust baking time based on the pan size you choose.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. If the toothpick has wet batter, keep baking and check again in 5 minutes.

Can I add more apples to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add more apples if you like. Just make sure to chop them small. Keep in mind, too many apples can make the cake moist. Aim for about 3 cups of diced apples for balance.

This blog shows how to make a delicious Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake. We talked about key ingredients and options for extra flavor. I provided step-by-step baking instructions and shared tips for the perfect cake. Variations add fun twists, and storage info helps keep your cake fresh.

Make this cake for a cozy treat. It’s easy and tasty. Enjoy baking, and share your cake with friends and family!

- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), browned - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) - Powdered sugar for dusting These ingredients are key to making a rich and tasty cake. The browned butter gives it a nutty flavor. The spices add warmth and aroma. Apples bring moisture and sweetness. - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves - 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries You can add these ingredients for more depth. Cloves add a warm spice. Dried fruits give sweetness and texture. - Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. - Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour for a gluten-free cake. - Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar. These swaps help fit different diets or preferences. Always adjust the baking time if you change the ingredients. First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure your cake bakes evenly. While the oven heats, grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This step helps the cake release easily after baking. To brown the butter, place it in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir it often as it melts. Keep cooking until it turns a deep golden brown and smells nutty. This process takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set this bowl aside. In another bowl, mix the cooled brown butter with brown sugar. Stir well until smooth. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. Now, slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until they just come together. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake tough. Gently fold in the diced apples and walnuts if you’re using them. This adds flavor and texture. Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean when the cake is ready. When the cake is done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust the top with powdered sugar. This gives it a lovely finish! To make perfect brown butter, start with unsalted butter. Use a medium saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter slowly. Stir it often. Keep an eye on the color. You want a rich golden brown. This process takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The nutty smell means it’s ready. Remove it from heat and let it cool a bit. This step adds depth to your cake. For the best flavor, use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. These apples are tart and firm. They hold up well in the oven. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious. They can turn mushy and lose their shape. Dice the apples into small pieces for even baking. This helps them blend well in the cake. Measure your ingredients carefully. Too much flour can make the cake dry. Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently. Over-mixing can lead to a tough cake. Always check your oven temperature. An oven that runs hot can burn your cake. Use a toothpick to test doneness. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. To serve, let the cake cool completely. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This makes for an extra treat. For a pretty touch, scatter extra diced apples and walnuts on top. This not only looks nice but adds flavor too. {{image_2}} You can make your cake more festive by adding seasonal spices. Cloves and allspice bring warm, rich flavors that pair well with apples. Just add 1/4 teaspoon of cloves and 1/2 teaspoon of allspice to the dry mix. This will deepen the taste and give your cake a cozy aroma. Each bite will remind you of fall! For a fun twist, consider adding mix-ins. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can add sweetness and texture. You can use 1/2 cup of these fruits in place of or along with the apples. If you love chocolate, try adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. This creates a lovely contrast with the spices and butter. If you want a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 mix for best results. For a vegan cake, replace the eggs with flax eggs. That’s one tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with two and a half tablespoons of water for each egg. Use a plant-based butter to replace the unsalted butter. Both options will keep your cake delicious and enjoyable for everyone! To keep your cake fresh, wrap it well. Use plastic wrap or foil. Store it in a cool, dry place. If you want it to last longer, put it in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to a week this way. Be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping. This helps keep it moist and tasty. You can freeze your Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake for later. First, slice the cake into pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, put the slices in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. The cake can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To enjoy your cake warm, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes. This warms it up without drying it out. You can also use a microwave. Heat a slice for about 15-20 seconds. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra joy. Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. Bake the cake and let it cool completely. Then wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. If you need a substitute for brown sugar, use white sugar with molasses. Mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses. This will give you a similar flavor and color. You can also use coconut sugar for a different twist. Yes, you can use different pan sizes. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will be thicker and may take longer to bake. For larger pans, check for doneness sooner. Adjust baking time based on the pan size you choose. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. If the toothpick has wet batter, keep baking and check again in 5 minutes. Absolutely! You can add more apples if you like. Just make sure to chop them small. Keep in mind, too many apples can make the cake moist. Aim for about 3 cups of diced apples for balance. This blog shows how to make a delicious Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake. We talked about key ingredients and options for extra flavor. I provided step-by-step baking instructions and shared tips for the perfect cake. Variations add fun twists, and storage info helps keep your cake fresh. Make this cake for a cozy treat. It’s easy and tasty. Enjoy baking, and share your cake with friends and family!

Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Brown Butter Apple Spice Cake that's sure to impress at any gathering! With a delightful blend of warm spices and gooey apples, this cake is easy to make and perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions. Follow our simple recipe to create the ultimate treat that everyone will love. Click through for the full recipe and make your kitchen smell divine! #AppleCake #BrownButter #FallBaking #DessertRecipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), browned

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

    Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to cook it, stirring frequently, until it turns a deep golden brown and has a nutty aroma—about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set aside.

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the browned butter and brown sugar. Mix until well blended. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts (if using).

            Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

              Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

                - Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8-10

                  Presentation Tips: Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgent touch. Scatter some extra diced apples and walnuts on top for a decorative finish!

                    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

                    Leave a Comment

                    Recipe Rating