Apple Pecan Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the flavors of apples, spices, and nuts. This cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet, creamy frosting that makes it irresistible. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is loved for several reasons. First, it uses fresh Granny Smith apples, which add a tartness and moisture to the cake. The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg provides a warm, comforting flavor that is perfect for any season, while the pecans add a nice crunch. Lastly, the brown sugar cream cheese frosting takes the cake to another level with its rich sweetness. It’s easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends!
How to Make Apple Pecan Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
Making this delicious cake is straightforward and fun. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped Granny Smith apples
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 lightly beaten eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup roughly chopped pecans
- 8 ounces room temperature cream cheese
- ¼ cup softened salted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup light brown sugar
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9 x 13 x 1-inch baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray, then lightly dust it with flour. Tap out the excess flour and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together 4 cups of chopped Granny Smith apples and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Add in ½ cup of vegetable oil, 2 lightly beaten eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well.
- In another medium bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the apple mixture and mix until combined. Then, add ½ cup of milk and stir until just blended. Finally, fold in 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Allow the cake to cool completely.
To prepare the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened salted butter until creamy.
- Add in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 cup of light brown sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly on top.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Spice Cake
Serve your Apple Pecan Spice Cake by slicing it into squares. It’s delicious on its own but can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. It’s perfect for dessert at a dinner party or a cozy night in!
How to Store Apple Pecan Spice Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake can last for up to a week, though it’s best enjoyed within the first few days. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep well for a couple of months.
Tips to Make Apple Pecan Spice Cake
- Make sure to chop the apples evenly for consistent baking.
- If you want a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the batter.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste for a more intense flavor.
Variation
You can switch out the Granny Smith apples for other varieties, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Additionally, you can add raisins or cranberries for an extra fruity bite.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance, allowing it to cool and store it covered. Frost it on the day you plan to serve it.
3. How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached when the cake is done.
Enjoy your baking adventure with this lovely Apple Pecan Spice Cake!
Apple Pecan Spice Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 4 cups chopped Granny Smith apples Use firm, tart apples for best results.
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large lightly beaten eggs Room temperature eggs work best.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Add more for extra flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk Use whole milk for creaminess.
- 1 cup roughly chopped pecans Toast for enhanced flavor, if desired.
For the Frosting
- 8 ounces room temperature cream cheese Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- ¼ cup softened salted butter Can use unsalted butter if preferred.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup light brown sugar Packed for optimal sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9 x 13 x 1-inch baking sheet by spraying with nonstick cooking spray and lightly dusting with flour.
- In a large bowl, mix together chopped Granny Smith apples and granulated sugar. Add vegetable oil, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir well.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the apple mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in milk and fold in chopped pecans.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
Frosting
- In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and softened butter until creamy.
- Add vanilla extract and brown sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top.
