Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is the perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting spices, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon snack, this cake stands out with its moist texture, the warmth of fall spices, and a luscious caramel frosting. The combination of browned butter and fresh apples elevates this apple spice cake to a new level of deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of browned butter, crisp apples, and warm spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because! This cake fits any celebration.
- Homemade Caramel Sauce: Enhance the flavor with either homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for extra decadence.
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to the addition of sour cream and the right flour blend, every bite melts in your mouth.
- Simple Instructions: Easy-to-follow steps make baking this cake enjoyable for both novice and experienced bakers.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help ensure your baking process is smooth and successful.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cake pans (6-inch)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar a breeze, saving time and effort.
- Cake pans: Properly sized pans guarantee even baking and easy layer assembly.
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, chopped into small squares (I used Honeycrisp)
– 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. Grease and flour three 6-inch cake pans. Line each bottom with parchment paper circles to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg plus egg yolk one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, baking powder, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour. Mix until just combined.
5. Gradually add milk; be careful not to over-mix.
6. Gently fold in chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans (about one heaping cup per pan). Smooth out tops with a spatula. Bake in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt half a cup of salted butter until it turns golden brown; stir occasionally.
2. Remove from heat; let cool slightly.
In another mixing bowl:
3. Beat remaining unsalted butter until creamy.
4. Gradually add powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
5. Mix in vanilla extract and salted caramel sauce until combined.
6. Slowly incorporate cooled browned butter into frosting mixture; mix thoroughly until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Assemble Your Cake
Spread or pipe frosting onto cooled cake layers as desired. Drizzle with homemade caramel on top and sides for added richness. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days.
Enjoy your delightful Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake!
How to Serve Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Serving the Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can elevate any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this scrumptious cake.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm spices of the cake.
- Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra flavor boost.
Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce
- A light drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce enhances the cake’s sweetness.
- It adds a luxurious touch that complements the browned butter flavor perfectly.
Garnished with Fresh Fruit
- Fresh apple slices or berries can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Consider using seasonal fruits for added color and taste.
Served Warm
- For a comforting experience, serve the cake warm out of the oven.
- A warm slice brings out the flavors and aromas, making it even more inviting.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that balances the dense cake.
- Top each slice generously for an indulgent treat.
How to Perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Achieving the perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some essential tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your eggs, butter, and milk to room temperature ensures even mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter – Gently combine ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check for doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked. This prevents undercooking or burning.
- Cool completely before frosting – Allow your cakes to cool on a wire rack before adding frosting. This helps maintain the frosting’s structure and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
Pairing your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty suggestions.
- Spiced Chai Latte – The warm spices in chai match perfectly with apple spice flavors, creating a cozy drink pairing.
- Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Nuts – These add crunch and another layer of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the cake’s softness.
- Caramelized Apples – Sautéed apples in brown sugar and butter make a delicious topping or side dish that echoes the cake’s flavors.
- Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup serves as a savory contrast to the sweet cake, perfect for fall gatherings.
- Cheese Platter – Sharp cheeses like aged cheddar offer a savory balance against the sweet richness of the cake.
- Herbed Salad – A fresh salad with herbs provides brightness and cuts through the richness of the dessert, making it more refreshing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can cause the cake to become tough. Mix just until combined, especially after adding flour.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can dry out your cake. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can lead to sticking. Always line your pans for easy release.
- Underbaking your cake: Cakes should be baked just until a toothpick comes out clean. Keep an eye on the time and check early if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake.
Can I use different types of apples for this cake?
Yes! While Honeycrisp apples are great, feel free to use Granny Smith, Fuji, or any apple you prefer. Each variety adds its unique flavor.
Is there a gluten-free version of Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How do I enhance the flavors in my Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake?
Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can add crunch and depth. You might also consider raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake stays moist and delicious when stored properly. You can bake it a day or two in advance.
Final Thoughts
The Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is not just a delightful treat; it’s perfect for any occasion. Its warm spices and rich flavors make it an ideal dessert for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners. Consider experimenting with different apple varieties or adding nuts to customize it further. Enjoy baking this heartwarming recipe!
Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 9 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. This cake features a moist texture complemented by the rich essence of browned butter and fresh apples, enhanced with aromatic fall spices. Topped with a luscious caramel frosting, every bite is an unforgettable taste experience that will impress your family and friends. Whether serving at a festive gathering or enjoying as an afternoon snack, this cake promises to be the star of the dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1/3 cup 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 chopped apples (Honeycrisp recommended)
- 3/4 cup whole or 2% milk
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (softened for frosting)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup homemade caramel (for drizzling)
- 1/2 apple, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 6-inch cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugars until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract, followed by spices, salt, baking powder, and flours until just combined. Gradually add milk and fold in chopped apples.
- Divide the batter among prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans before transferring to wire racks.
- For frosting, melt half a cup of salted butter until golden brown. Beat remaining butter with powdered sugar until fluffy; add caramel sauce and cooled browned butter.
- Frost cooled cake layers generously with caramel frosting and drizzle additional caramel on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
