Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall. With its rich browned butter, tender apples, and warm spices, this cake is ideal for any gathering, from holiday feasts to cozy family dinners. The addition of homemade caramel sauce elevates it further, making it a standout treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of browned butter and warm spices creates a rich flavor profile that is hearty and comforting.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a sweet treat at home. This cake fits any occasion!
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert.
- Homemade Caramel: The option for homemade caramel sauce adds an extra touch that makes this cake truly special.
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to the mix of flours and apples, this cake stays moist and tender long after baking.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 6-inch cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- 6-inch cake pans: These are perfect for creating beautiful layered cakes that are easy to handle and serve.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures your butter and sugars are creamed perfectly, leading to a light and fluffy texture in your cake.
- Rubber spatula: Great for folding in ingredients gently without deflating your batter.
Ingredients
Browned butter, crisp apples, fall spices, and homemade caramel sauce make up this delight browned butter apple spice cake.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 Cup Salted Umpqua Dairy Butter, softened to room temperature
– 3/4 Cup Granulated Sugar
– 1/2 Cup Dark Brown Sugar, packed
– 1 Large Egg + 1 Large Egg Yolk
– 1/3 Cup Umpqua Dairy Sour Cream
– 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
– 2 Teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
– 3/4 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
– 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cloves
– 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
– 2 Teaspoons Baking Powder
– 1 Cup All Purpose Flour
– 3/4 Cup Whole Wheat Flour
– 3/4 Cup Umpqua Dairy Whole or 2% Milk
– 3/4 Cup Apples of Choice (I used Honeycrisp), chopped into small squares
– 1 1/2 Cups Umpqua Dairy Salted Butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
– 1/4 Cup Caramel Sauce (homemade or store bought)
– 3 Cups Powdered Sugar, sifted
– 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
– 1/2 Cup Homemade Caramel, drizzled on top and over the sides
– 1/2 Apple, chopped into small squares and tossed in a tablespoon of caramel sauce
– Greenery, for garnish
How to Make Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 6-inch cake pans, flour them lightly or spray with baking spray. Line each bottom with a circle of parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and egg yolk; beat well after each addition.
Mix in the sour cream and pure vanilla extract until well combined.
Then add:
Cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, salt, baking powder, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour. Mix well.
Next:
Pour in the milk; mix until just incorporated without over-mixing.
Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans (about a heaping cup per pan) and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
In a saucepan over medium heat:
Melt 1/2 cup of salted butter until it turns golden brown. Stir occasionally while cooking.
Remove from heat once browned and let cool slightly. In another mixing bowl:
Beat remaining 1 cup of unsalted butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. Then pour in:
Pure vanilla extract and salted caramel sauce; continue mixing until fully combined.
Once cooled slightly:
Slowly incorporate browned butter into frosting mixture. Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed.
Continue beating until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble Your Cake
Spread or pipe your frosting onto cooled cakes as desired. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy every delightful bite!
How to Serve Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Serving your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this scrumptious cake that will impress family and friends alike.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake, providing a creamy contrast that enhances the flavors.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A generous drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and a beautiful presentation, making each slice irresistible.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream can balance the richness of the cake, creating a delightful texture contrast.
Served with Fresh Apples
- Fresh apple slices on the side not only add color but also enhance the apple flavor in the cake itself.
Accompanied by Chai Tea
- The spiced notes of chai tea pair wonderfully with the flavors of this cake, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
As a Layered Dessert
- For an impressive presentation, serve layers of cake with frosting between them, creating a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
How to Perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
To ensure your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients – Ingredients like butter and eggs mix better when they are at room temperature, resulting in a lighter texture.
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Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for fluffy results.
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Check for doneness – Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
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Let it cool properly – Allowing the cake to cool in the pans helps it set before transferring it to a wire rack.
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Store correctly – Keep any leftover cake covered at room temperature for freshness up to three days.
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Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences for a more personalized flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options that complement this delicious dessert.
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Spiced Nuts – A mix of roasted spiced nuts provides crunch and savory notes that balance the sweetness of the cake.
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Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie pairs beautifully, offering contrasting flavors and textures.
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Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dessert.
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Pumpkin Soup – The warmth and spices in pumpkin soup create a comforting combination with your apple spice cake during fall gatherings.
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Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts – These sweet treats echo similar flavors found in the spice cake, making them an excellent accompaniment.
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Coffee or Espresso – A cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso enhances the overall experience by complementing the rich flavors of both cake and spices.
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Gingerbread Cookies – For those who love holiday flavors, gingerbread cookies offer additional festive spice notes alongside your dessert.
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Hot Chocolate – A rich cup of hot chocolate brings warmth and indulgence to any dessert table featuring this flavorful cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
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Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold ingredients can lead to an uneven batter. Always ensure your butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
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Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined; small lumps are okay!
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Not Measuring Accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for both dry and wet ingredients to guarantee consistency.
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Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your pans can cause the cake to stick. Always line with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect rising and texture. Always preheat your oven before placing your cake inside.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The cake will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake.
How can I make my Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake extra moist?
Adding additional apples or using applesauce can enhance moisture. Ensure not to overbake your cake as well.
Can I substitute the flour types used in this recipe?
Yes! You can use all-purpose flour only or try gluten-free flour blends if needed. Adjustments may be necessary for baking times.
What if I don’t have browned butter?
You can use regular melted butter instead, but you’ll miss out on that rich flavor! Browning the butter enhances the taste significantly.
Is this cake suitable for special diets?
This recipe contains dairy and eggs. For vegan options, consider plant-based substitutes like almond milk and flax eggs.
Final Thoughts
The Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for various occasions—be it a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. Feel free to customize it with different spices or toppings! Enjoy baking this delightful treat!
Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with our Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of the season. This cake features rich browned butter, tender chopped apples, and a medley of warm spices, creating an irresistible flavor profile that will have your guests asking for seconds. Topped with a luscious homemade caramel frosting, this cake is not only beautiful but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this cake is sure to impress and bring comfort to every gathering.
Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Salted Umpqua Dairy Butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Dark Brown Sugar, packed
- 1 Large Egg + 1 Large Egg Yolk
- 1/3 Cup Umpqua Dairy Sour Cream
- 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- 2 Teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
- 3/4 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cloves
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 2 Teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1 Cup All Purpose Flour
- 3/4 Cup Whole Wheat Flour
- 3/4 Cup Umpqua Dairy Whole or 2% Milk
- 3/4 Cup Apples of Choice (I used Honeycrisp), chopped into small squares
- 1 1/2 Cups Umpqua Dairy Salted Butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 Cup Caramel Sauce (homemade or store bought)
- 3 Cups Powdered Sugar, sifted
- 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
- 1/2 Cup Homemade Caramel, drizzled on top and over the sides
- 1/2 Apple, chopped into small squares and tossed in a tablespoon of caramel sauce
- Greenery, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 6-inch cake pans, flour them lightly or spray with baking spray. Line each bottom with a circle of parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl: Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and egg yolk; beat well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream and pure vanilla extract until well combined.
- Then add: Cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, salt, baking powder, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour. Mix well. Next: Pour in the milk; mix until just incorporated without over-mixing. Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans (about a heaping cup per pan) and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a saucepan over medium heat: Melt 1/2 cup of salted butter until it turns golden brown. Stir occasionally while cooking. Remove from heat once browned and let cool slightly. In another mixing bowl: Beat remaining 1 cup of unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. Then pour in: Pure vanilla extract and salted caramel sauce; continue mixing until fully combined. Once cooled slightly: Slowly incorporate browned butter into frosting mixture. Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed. Continue beating until you reach your desired consistency.
- Spread or pipe your frosting onto cooled cakes as desired. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy every delightful bite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
