Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall. With its rich, nutty browned butter, tender apples, and a blend of warm spices, this cake is ideal for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Topped with a luscious caramel frosting, it stands out as a delightful treat that will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of browned butter and spices creates a deep, comforting flavor that evokes autumn.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or just an afternoon snack—this cake fits any celebration.
• Deliciously Moist: The addition of sour cream and chopped apples ensures each slice is moist and tender.
• Beautiful Presentation: Layered with caramel frosting and garnished with fresh apple pieces, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 3 (6-inch) cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake pans: Using three separate pans allows for even baking and easy layering.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Spatula: A good spatula ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly without overworking it.

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 (Honeycrisp recommended), 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
– 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, and line each bottom with parchment paper.

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 and egg yolk one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the 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 until incorporated but do not over-mix.
6. Fold in chopped apples gently.

Distribute the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans—about a heaping cup per pan—and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in pans for about ten minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt 1/2 cup salted butter, stirring occasionally until it turns golden brown; remove from heat to cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat remaining 1 cup unsalted butter until creamy.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract and caramel sauce; mix well.
4. Slowly incorporate cooled browned butter into frosting mixture; mix thoroughly until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread or pipe frosting onto cooled cakes as desired. Drizzle homemade caramel over the top along with chopped apples mixed in caramel. Garnish with greenery if desired. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy your delicious Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake!

How to Serve Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

Serving Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices and rich flavors of the cake perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance each slice with a drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for added sweetness and decadence.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lighten up the dessert by adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which balances the richness of the cake.

Garnished with Fresh Apples

• Add a fresh touch by garnishing with thinly sliced apples tossed in caramel sauce for a beautiful presentation.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing this cake with a warm beverage creates a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal afternoon treat.

As a Layered Cake Dessert

• Serve as individual layers with frosting between each layer for an impressive display at parties or celebrations.

Save it!

How to Perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

Achieving the perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out amazing every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensures better mixing and helps to create a fluffy texture in your cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold in the ingredients to maintain airiness, which helps the cake rise well.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt when applied.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust spice levels according to your taste for a personalized flavor profile.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Cheese Platter: Offer various cheeses like Brie or aged cheddar that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cake.
3. Roasted Nuts: Serve spiced or candied nuts on the side for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cake.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides savory warmth that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
5. Savory Scones: Cheese scones or herb scones can provide an interesting contrast to the sweet flavors of apple spice cake.
6. Chai Tea Latte: The spiced notes in chai tea make it an excellent drink pairing, enhancing autumn flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking the Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, even seasoned bakers can run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and a disappointing cake texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy result.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your pans with parchment prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the cakes intact.
• Ignoring cooling times: Allow the cake to cool adequately before frosting. This helps prevent the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge.

Freezing Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap then foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Avoid overheating as it can dry out the cake.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake:

What makes Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake special?

Browned butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements apples and spices perfectly, making this cake both unique and delicious.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! While Honeycrisp is great, you can also use Granny Smith or Fuji apples for different taste profiles.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them wrapped in plastic until you’re ready to frost and serve.

What is the best way to serve this cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or additional caramel sauce drizzled on top.

Final Thoughts

The Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is not just another dessert; it’s a cozy treat that brings warmth to any occasion. With its rich flavors and moist texture, this cake is perfect for holidays or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it by experimenting with different spices or adding nuts for extra crunch. Give it a try, and savor every bite!