Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour provides the structure and base of the cake.
2 teaspoons baking powder helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
1 teaspoon baking soda works with baking powder to leaven the batter.
½ teaspoon salt balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon imparts the signature warm spice flavor.
1 teaspoon ground ginger adds depth and aroma.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg contributes a subtle nutty note.
½ teaspoon ground cloves enhances the spiced profile.
1 cup vegetable oil keeps the cake moist and tender.
1 ¾ cups packed light or dark brown sugar adds moisture and rich sweetness, with dark brown sugar preferred for deeper flavor.
1 cup unsweetened applesauce provides extra moisture and subtle flavor.
4 large eggs bind ingredients and contribute to texture.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract enhances the overall taste.
1 cup shredded apple (or alternatively shredded carrot or zucchini) boosts moisture and adds natural sweetness.
1 tablespoon unsulphured or dark molasses deepens the flavor if you want a richer taste.
¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into slices creates a nutty base when browned.
8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature forms the creamy texture.
2 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract adds a smooth flavor boost.
Pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a finishing touch of spice.
Instructions
1-Preheat oven and prepare pan: Getting started with this moist spice cake is simple and fun, beginning with preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or your favorite size to ensure easy removal later. This step sets the stage for a smooth baking process that takes about 38-50 minutes, depending on your pan.
2-Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves for even distribution. This dry mix is the foundation that gives the cake its structure and spicy warmth.
3-Mix wet ingredients: Then, in a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, and molasses if you’re using it until well combined.
4-Combine and bake: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed to keep some lumps for a tender crumb, then fold in the shredded apple. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, which usually takes 38 to 40 minutes.
5-Frost and chill: After baking, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before frosting to avoid a soggy result. For the frosting, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s golden brown with a nutty aroma, then cool and refrigerate it until solid. Once solid, beat it smooth, add the cream cheese, and mix until combined, followed by the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and salt for a fluffy finish.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set. This step makes slicing easier and enhances the flavors. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, remember to check baking times, as variations might need a few extra minutes.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌟 Use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor profile.
🍏 Substitute shredded carrot or zucchini if apples are unavailable.
❄️ Refrigerate frosted cake before slicing for cleaner cuts and better texture.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cooling and frosting set time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg