apple butter cake recipe

apple butter cake recipe

The Best apple butter cake recipe

I’m so excited to share this apple butter cake recipe with you, it’s a family favorite that’s been passed down for generations. The origins of this recipe are a bit unclear, but I’ve found that it’s a staple in many American households, particularly in the Midwest where apple butter is a beloved ingredient.

The first time I made this cake, I was blown away by the depth of flavor and the moist texture. It’s a game-changer for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner or a Tuesday night dessert.

The key to making this cake is to use high-quality ingredients, particularly the apple butter which gives it that unmistakable flavor. I like to use a combination of all-purpose flour and cake flour for the perfect balance of structure and tenderness.

The addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the cake, making it feel cozy and inviting.

Apple Butter Cake

Apple Butter Cake

4.8 from 990 votes

A moist and tender cake infused with the rich, spiced flavor of apple butter. This simple cake is perfect for fall baking and pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup apple butter
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons apple butter
1 to 2 tablespoons milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
3In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract and 1 cup of apple butter until fully combined.
5In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
7Mix on low speed just until the batter is smooth and no streaks of flour remain.
8Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
9Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
10Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of apple butter, and 1 tablespoon of milk in a small bowl.
12Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a drizzling consistency.
13Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it run down the sides.
14Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

🔧Equipment

9-inch round cake pan
Electric mixer
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Cooling rack
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 32g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a deeper spice flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Apple Butter Cake Works

This apple butter cake is one of those recipes that always delivers. It is simple to put together, uses pantry staples, and tastes like something you spent hours on.

I love that I can make it ahead for a family gathering or just bake it on a Sunday to enjoy all week. To store the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.

If you want to reheat a slice, pop it in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm it in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. It is also delicious served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

This cake works for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, and it always gets compliments.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Butter Cake

Q: What is apple butter and how does it differ from regular applesauce?

Apple butter is a spread made from apples that have been cooked down until they’re soft and caramelized. It has a rich, velvety texture and a deep, sweet flavor that’s unlike anything else. Unlike applesauce, which can be quite chunky and acidic, apple butter is smooth and mellow. It’s perfect for using in baked goods like this cake.

Q: Can I substitute other types of sugar for the brown sugar called for in the recipe?

While you can substitute other types of sugar for the brown sugar, keep in mind that it will affect the flavor and texture of the cake. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that’s hard to replicate with other sugars. If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can try substituting with a combination of granulated sugar and molasses.

Q: How do I ensure that my cake turns out moist and not dry?

The key to making a moist cake is to not overmix the batter. Mix your wet ingredients together until they’re just combined, then fold them into your dry ingredients until they’re just combined as well. Overmixing can lead to a dense, dry crumb that’s unpleasant to eat.

Q: Can I make this cake in advance or should I make it fresh each time?

You can make this cake up to two days in advance, but keep in mind that it will be more tender and flavorful when fresh. If you need to make it ahead of time, try freezing the batter until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: Are there any substitutions I can make for the walnuts or pecans called for in the recipe?

While walnuts or pecans add a nice texture and flavor to the cake, you can substitute them with other nuts like hazelnuts or almonds if you prefer.

Similar Posts