Name: Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, room temperature; 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/3 cup apple cider (not apple juice); 1/3 cup fresh apple, peeled and grated (moisture absorbed with paper towels); 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted; 4 to 5 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk; 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adjust to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 87 reviews

There is something downright magical about a cake that fills your kitchen with the aroma of fresh apples and warm spices. The Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe perfectly captures the essence of cozy, comforting flavors wrapped up in a tender, moist cake. This delightful treat balances the natural sweetness of grated apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, all finished with a smooth cinnamon glaze that adds a touch of elegance and extra warmth. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving a homemade dessert that tastes like a hug, this cake will quickly become a beloved classic to turn to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a thick, creamy mixture that is light beige in color with some orange spots mixed in. A wooden spatula with a white silicone head rests inside the bowl, partially covered with the thick batter, showing smooth and slightly textured swirls. The bowl has a small handle and a spout on its rim. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

You’ll find that this recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on simple ingredients that come together to create an irresistible flavor and texture. Each item plays a vital role, whether it’s the butter for richness, the fresh apples for moisture and subtle tartness, or the blend of spices that define the cake’s warm character.

Butter, 1 cup (226 g), room temperature: Provides a creamy base and helps create a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g): Adds sweetness and helps with browning for that beautiful crust.
Light brown sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g), packed: Delivers a subtle caramel note that complements the spices perfectly.
Eggs, 3 large, room temperature: Bind the ingredients and add moisture and structure.
Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors with its warm aromatic touch.
All-purpose flour, 2 cups (250 g), spooned and leveled: The foundation that holds your cake together.
Baking powder, 1 teaspoon: Helps the cake rise to a light and fluffy texture.
Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
Ground cinnamon, 1 1/4 teaspoons: The star spice that delivers that signature apple spice sweetness.
Ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds subtle warmth and a little zing.
Ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon: Rounds out the spice blend with a nutty, sweet undertone.
Apple cider, 1/3 cup (not apple juice): Introduces moisture with a tart fruitiness that amplifies the apples’ flavor.
Fresh apple, 1/3 cup peeled and grated: Provides freshness and natural sweetness; be sure to press out excess moisture with paper towels for the best texture.

For Cinnamon Glaze

Powdered sugar, 1 cup (120 g), sifted: Creates a smooth base for the glaze.
Heavy cream or whole milk, 4 to 5 tablespoons: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect consistency and adds richness.
Ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon (adjust to taste): Infuses the glaze with that unmistakable cinnamon warmth.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F, then line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an inch or two overhang to help you easily lift the cake out later. This small step makes all the difference when it comes to handling your beautiful finished cake without any breakage.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter with both granulated and light brown sugars. Whip it until the mixture is light and fluffy, about three minutes—this is your secret weapon for a tender and airy cake base. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides halfway through to make sure all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, add the eggs to the creamed mixture, allowing each to fully combine before the next. This slow incorporation ensures a smooth batter with no curdling. Finish by mixing in your vanilla extract so the warm, inviting flavor penetrates every bite.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a separate bowl. This allows the spices to evenly distribute throughout the cake, guaranteeing you get a perfect flavor in every forkful.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Apple Cider

Incorporate the dry ingredient mix and apple cider into your butter and egg mixture, alternating between the two and starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This method helps maintain the cake’s delicate structure and moistness.

Step 6: Fold in the Grated Apple

Now, gently fold in the grated apple using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as the apple adds gorgeous texture and moisture but too much handling could lead to a dense cake.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and place it on the center rack of your oven. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If the top begins to brown too quickly during the last few minutes, tent it loosely with foil to prevent burning. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before gently lifting it out with the parchment paper and cooling completely on a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare and Drizzle the Cinnamon Glaze

For that final touch of sweetness and spice, sift powdered sugar into a bowl and whisk together with your cream or milk and cinnamon until smooth and lump-free. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar or cream, if needed. Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the luscious glaze over the top. The result? A stunning cake that’s every bit as delicious as it looks.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

A close-up view of a loaf cake with one slice cut, showing a light brown, soft, and moist texture inside. The cake loaf has a thick, white icing layer dripping slightly over the top edges, forming uneven lines. It sits on white parchment paper on a light gray metal tray. To the right side of the cake, a knife with a beige handle rests on the tray. In the background, blurred white dishes and a white ribbed cup are visible, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the moist cake. Fresh apple slices or a dusting of extra cinnamon on the glaze elevate the presentation and intensify the autumnal vibe.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to balance the spices with creamy indulgence. For a more substantial serving, consider a side of spiced hot apple cider or chai tea that harmonizes wonderfully with the cake’s cinnamon notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices of the Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe on rustic wooden boards or vintage plates for a cozy, farmhouse-inspired look. Layer smaller pieces in dessert glasses with alternating layers of whipped cream and crushed ginger snap cookies to create an elegant trifle. The cinnamon glaze also works beautifully as a dip when warmed slightly—an unexpected but fun twist for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake keeps beautifully for up to three days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The spices only deepen in flavor as it rests, so each day tastes even better than the last!

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe later, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep fresh for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

For a warm slice that tastes freshly baked, microwave individual pieces for 15 to 20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Warmed cake paired with a fresh drizzle of glaze or cream is the ultimate cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?

Absolutely! While a sweet and crisp variety like Fuji or Gala works beautifully, you can choose your favorite apple. Just make sure to peel and grate it well, and press out any excess moisture to keep the cake’s texture perfect.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version. Baking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

It’s best to use apple cider because it has a richer, more complex flavor without the added sugars found in apple juice. If you only have apple juice on hand, consider mixing it with a bit of lemon juice to balance the sweetness and acidity.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

Your trusty hand mixer or even a sturdy wooden spoon and some elbow grease will do the trick! Just be sure to cream the butter and sugars thoroughly for the best texture.

How thick should the cinnamon glaze be?

The glaze should be smooth and pourable but not too runny. It needs to coat the back of a spoon and slowly drip off. You can easily adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more cream to thin it out.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe is the perfect way to embrace those cozy, nostalgic flavors that make fall so special. With its tender crumb, fresh apple sweetness, and warming spices, every bite feels like a celebration of the season. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself baking it over and over with a big smile and a kitchen full of happy aromas.