Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall. This delightful cake combines rich browned butter, crisp apples, and warm spices, all topped with a luscious homemade caramel sauce. It’s a versatile treat, ideal for gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying at home with loved ones. The unique blend of ingredients creates a moist and flavorful cake that is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of browned butter and fresh apples brings a rich taste that elevates your dessert experience.
• Seasonal Appeal: Perfect for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations, making it a festive addition to any table.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this beautiful cake with ease.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a layered cake or as individual cupcakes; it fits any occasion.
• Decadent Toppings: The caramel sauce adds an indulgent finish that complements the spices perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Creating this Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake requires some essential tools you likely have on hand. They will help simplify the baking process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-inch cake pans: Ideal for creating even layers that bake uniformly.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar, ensuring a light texture.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients without deflating the 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 (for frosting)
– 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract (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, 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). Prepare three greased and floured six-inch cake pans by lining each bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make 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, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the sour cream and pure vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, baking powder, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour. Mix well.
5. Pour in the milk; mix gently until just incorporated—avoid over-mixing.
6. Fold in the chopped apples evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans (about one heaping cup per pan). Smooth out the tops with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in pans for about ten minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt half a cup of salted butter until it turns golden brown. Stir occasionally during this process.
2. Remove from heat once browned; let cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat one cup of unsalted butter until creamy.
4. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth.
5. Pour in pure vanilla extract and salted caramel sauce; mix well.
6. Slowly incorporate cooled browned butter into frosting mixture until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Spread or pipe frosting onto cooled cakes layer by layer. Drizzle homemade caramel on top and around the sides before garnishing with chopped apple pieces tossed in caramel sauce.

Enjoy your deliciously moist Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake! Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days.

How to Serve Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

Serving your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can elevate any gathering or celebration. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its deliciousness.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that balances the cake’s richness.

Serve Warm with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside warm slices of cake creates a comforting dessert experience.

Drizzle with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Add more homemade caramel sauce over the slices for an indulgent touch that complements the apple and spice flavors.

Garnish with Toasted Nuts

• Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cake while adding nutty flavors.

Accompany with Spiced Tea or Coffee

• A warm cup of spiced tea or coffee enhances the fall spices in the cake, making it perfect for autumn gatherings.

Top with Sautéed Apples

• Sautéed apples cooked in butter and cinnamon add sweetness and a lovely presentation over each slice.

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How to Perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

To achieve the perfect Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake, consider these helpful tips that will ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature helps create a smoother batter for even baking.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently folding in ingredients prevents the cake from becoming tough; mix just until combined for a tender crumb.

• Cool Ingredients Before Mixing: Allow browned butter to cool slightly before adding to avoid cooking other ingredients prematurely.

• Check Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake at 25 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing the cake to cool completely makes frosting easier and helps prevent melting.

• Store Properly: To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake can enhance your meal and create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla bean ice cream complements the spicy notes of the cake perfectly.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Pecan Topping: A crunchy mix of pecans tossed in cinnamon sugar adds texture and enhances flavor when sprinkled on top of each slice.

3. Caramelized Pears: The sweet and buttery flavor of caramelized pears pairs excellently with apple spice, offering a fruity contrast.

4. Ginger Snap Cookies: The spicy kick from ginger snaps brings out the fall flavors in the cake while providing a fun crunch alongside each bite.

5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoying this seasonal beverage while savoring a piece of cake creates a cozy autumn afternoon treat.

6. Cheese Board Selection: A selection of cheeses such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie can balance sweetness and add savory notes to your dessert spread.

7. Spiced Hot Chocolate: This rich drink enhances the warm spices within the cake, making it an ideal pairing for chilly evenings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid when making your Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always bring your butter and eggs to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to become tough. Mix until just combined to keep it fluffy and light.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your cake pans can result in stuck cakes. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can dry out your cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, place wax paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake.

How do I know when my cake is done?

You can check if your cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are great, feel free to experiment with Granny Smith or Fuji for different flavors and textures.

What other spices can I add to the cake?

In addition to cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, you might consider adding ginger or allspice for extra warmth and depth.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cakes in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to frost and serve.

Final Thoughts

The Browned Butter Apple Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With warm spices, moist texture, and an optional caramel drizzle, this cake is sure to impress friends and family. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or changing up the frosting!