I know at most holiday gatherings, pie is the dessert of choice. But I’m a cake girl; not a pie girl. So, this Apple Spice Cake is my idea of the perfect holiday dessert…and I bet it can convert some pie lovers into cake lovers too. I mean, a fluffy, moist apple spice cake layered with tender caramelized apples and homemade whipped cream. What’s better than that? Bonus: it’s lighter and healthier than most desserts, so it’s perfect to enjoy after a big holiday meal! Love apple desserts as much as I do? Try my Perfect Apple Pie, Cinnamon Apple Muffins, or Fried Apples next!

Ingredients Needed:

Canola Oil: oil adds moisture to the cake. Feel free to use any neutral flavored oil you have on hand. Unsweetened Applesauce: adds more apple flavor and natural sweetness. Brown Sugar: brown sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness and keeps the cake nice and moist. Egg: binds everything together to help the cake hold its shape. Vanilla Extract: adds flavor depth and a touch of extra sweetness. Flour: I use a blend of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour which creates the perfect texture. Baking Soda: keeps the cake light and fluffy. Salt and Cinnamon: salt enhances flavor while cinnamon gives a hint of sweet spice. Caramelized Apples: for the caramelized apples you’ll need a firm apple such as Granny Smith, margarine or butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Whipped Cream: we’re making a simple homemade whip with whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake

This holiday cake takes just 20 minutes to prep!

Tips and Notes

Peel the apple. The peel can become chewy when the apple chunks are cooked. Don’t over-mix. Over-mixed batter can dry out and become too dense. Mix only until just combined. Check for doneness. I like to use a toothpick to make sure the cake is done before I pull it out of the oven. Just insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it’s ready to go. If there are still moist crumbs, it needs a little bit longer to bake. Cool the apples and cake before serving. If they’re hot, the whipped topping will just melt right off.

More Apple Desserts You’ll Love

Cinnamon Apple Muffins Recipe

Fried Apples

Perfect Apple Pie

Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp Cookies

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