Picture the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen as you bake a tender Apple Butter Cake.
Easy to make, this comforting dessert is a beloved favorite, perfect for cozy gatherings or indulgent afternoons.
Watch as simple ingredients transform into a moist, flavorful cake, with apple butter and optional walnuts adding depth and texture.
Let’s bring this delightful treat to life and savor its comforting flavors together.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 spatula
- 1 9-inch round cake pan
- 1 oven
- 1 cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Apple Butter Cake, follow this timeline:
- Reading and Preparation (5 minutes):
- Read the recipe thoroughly to understand the steps and gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
- Prepping Ingredients (10 minutes):
- Gather and measure all the ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, apple butter, buttermilk, and walnuts (if using).
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease the 9-inch round cake pan.
- Mixing Ingredients (10 minutes):
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the apple butter and walnuts.
- Baking (35 minutes):
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling (10 minutes):
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Final Cooling and Serving:
- Transfer the cake to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
- Optionally, serve the cake warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
Fold in the apple butter and walnuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Serving Tips
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and creamy contrast to the rich flavors of the apple butter cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over a warm slice of cake, adding a delightful cold element.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce for an indulgent sweetness that complements the spiced flavors.
- Fresh Apple Slices: Add a few fresh apple slices on the side for an extra fruity touch and a bit of crunch.
- Chai Tea Latte: Pair with a chai tea latte to enhance the warm, spiced notes of the cake.
Storage
To store Apple Butter Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for longer freshness.
Freezing
To freeze apple butter cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Then wrap it in aluminum foil.
Store in an airtight container for up to three months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat Apple Butter Cake, warm individual slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Alternatively, use a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes for even heating.
Final Thoughts
Apple Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of apple butter with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it at a gathering.
The cake’s moist texture and subtle sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser.
Consider experimenting with different toppings like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to enhance the experience.
Remember, the key to success isn’t to overmix the batter, ensuring a soft and tender cake.
Enjoy the process of making this classic American dessert and savor every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Apple Butter With Applesauce in the Cake Recipe?
You can substitute apple butter with applesauce in equal measure, but expect a milder flavor and a slightly different texture. For improved taste, add extra spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the cake’s depth and complexity.
What Is the Best Way to Make Homemade Apple Butter?
To make homemade apple butter, peel 4 pounds of apples. Simmer with 2 cups of cider, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon cloves. Stir frequently until thickened, then blend until smooth. Sterilize jars for preservation.
How Can I Make the Cake Gluten-Free?
Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for precise results. Make certain it’s a mix containing xanthan gum for ideal texture. Sift thoroughly to eliminate clumps, then proceed with the original recipe instructions.
Are There Any Vegan Alternatives for Eggs in This Recipe?
You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water. Guarantee thorough integration by whisking vigorously. These options maintain moisture while providing structure and binding properties.
What Are Some Creative Toppings for Apple Butter Cake?
You can top your cake with a caramel drizzle, a sprinkle of candied pecans, or a layer of cream cheese frosting. For a gourmet touch, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar and a cinnamon stick.
Apple Butter Cake
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Spatula
- 1 9-inch round cake pan
- 1 Oven
- 1 Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the apple butter and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
