Heavenly Apple Spice Cake 🍏🍰

Warm and comforting, this Apple Spice Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings or simply an afternoon snack. The aromatic spices combined with tender apples create a flavor profile that is sure to please everyone. You can enjoy it plain or dress it up with a sprinkle of confectioners' sugar or a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgence! 🍦✨

Ingredients

For the cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup softened butter
• 2 cups white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon warm water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• Confectioners' sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch tube pan to prevent sticking.

2. Soak the Raisins: If using raisins, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain. This helps to plump them up, adding moisture to the cake.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, spices, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

4. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

🍏 Tip: For extra flavor, feel free to use a mixture of brown and white sugar!

5. Add Eggs & Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

6. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the baking soda with warm water and stir into the sugar mixture. Gradually add the dry flour mixture, followed by the chopped apples and plumped raisins (if using). Stir until just combined to keep the cake light.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan and bake in the preheated oven for around 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool & Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully shake the pan to loosen the cake, then turn it out onto a serving plate. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.

🎉 Serving suggestion: Pair the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat!

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. 🌰
• Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• Dairy-free: Use a plant-based butter alternative and unsweetened applesauce in place of the eggs for a delicious dairy-free version.
• Fruity Twist: Experiment with different fruits, like pears or cranberries, for a unique flavor profile!

This Apple Spice Cake is bound to become a cherished recipe in your collection, bringing warmth and joy to every gathering! Enjoy baking! 🎂❤️