There is something utterly heartwarming about a moist, warmly spiced cake that brings the essence of autumn right into your kitchen. The Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe is just that kind of dessert—a delightful balance of tender crumb, fragrant spices, and the natural sweetness of fresh apples, all topped with a luscious cinnamon glaze that makes every bite sing. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy family gathering or just because you need a hug in food form, this recipe effortlessly combines simple ingredients to create a cake that truly comforts and impresses.

A close-up view of a loaf cake sliced in half, showing two layers of light brown, moist crumb texture with small air holes, topped with a smooth, white glaze that drips down the sides unevenly. The cake rests on a piece of white parchment paper over a rustic gray baking tray, placed on a white marbled surface. To the right of the cake, there is a knife with a beige handle. In the blurred background, there are stacked white plates and a white ceramic cup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, yet each one plays a crucial role in crafting the flavorful and tender Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe. From the creamy butter to the fragrant spices and fresh apples, every item contributes texture, moisture, or that signature autumnal taste that makes this cake unforgettable.

Unsalted butter, 1 cup (226 g), room temperature: Provides richness and a tender crumb while allowing you to control the saltiness perfectly.
Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g): Adds sweetness and helps create a light texture when creamed with butter.
Light brown sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g), packed: Brings a subtle caramel flavor and moisture, enhancing the cake’s depth.
Eggs, 3 large, room temperature: Serve as a binding agent and add structure while contributing to the cake’s moistness.
Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Elevates the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma that complements the spices.
All-purpose flour, 2 cups (250 g), spooned and leveled: The base of the cake’s structure, providing the perfect texture.
Baking powder, 1 teaspoon: Helps the cake rise beautifully, ensuring a light, tender bite.
Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Ground cinnamon, 1 1/4 teaspoons: The star spice that fills the cake with a cozy aroma and warmth.
Ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds a subtle zing to define the spice profile.
Ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon: Offers a delicate hint of earthy spice to round out the flavors.
Apple cider, 1/3 cup (not apple juice): Brings acidity and fruity notes, keeping the cake moist and tender.
Fresh apple, 1/3 cup peeled and grated: Introduces fresh sweetness and texture; drying between paper towels is key to avoid extra moisture.
Powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates the sweet base for the cinnamon glaze.
Heavy cream or milk (for glaze): Used to achieve the perfect drizzle consistency.
Ground cinnamon (for glaze): Finishes the glaze with a fragrant, spicy kick.

How to Make Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Let the parchment hang over the sides—it makes removing the cake after baking so much easier and helps keep your cake intact.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the soft butter together with both the granulated and light brown sugars until the mixture is light, airy, and fluffy. This step is essential because it helps trap air to give your cake that tender lift and wonderful texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure everything blends smoothly without breaking the emulsion. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that deeply inviting aroma that starts your cake off just right.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a separate bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures the spices are evenly distributed, which is key for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Apple Cider

Add the dry ingredient mixture to your butter and egg mix in three parts, alternating with the apple cider starting and ending with the dry mix. This method keeps your batter smooth and well combined, giving the cake both moisture and structure.

Step 6: Fold in the Grated Apple

Gently fold in the prepared grated apple with a spatula. This delicate step prevents overmixing, which could make your cake dense, and introduces bursts of fresh apple flavor with just the right texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake for about 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top begins browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil to protect it while the inside finishes baking.

Step 8: Cool Before Glazing

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before carefully lifting it out using the parchment overhang. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely so that the glaze will set nicely without melting into the cake.

The Cinnamon Glaze: Finishing Touch

Whisk together sifted powdered sugar, your choice of cream or milk, and cinnamon until smooth and lump free. Adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more cream/milk to thin it out. Drizzle generously over the completely cooled cake for a sweet, spicy finish that pulls the whole Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe together beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

A slice of light brown cake with soft, crumbly texture and a thin white frosting layer on top is placed on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The slice shows two layers: the dense cake and smooth frosting on top. A silver fork is breaking off a small piece from the lower right part of the slice. In the top left corner, a part of another similar cake slice is visible. The scene is brightly lit, showing the details of the cake crumbs and frosting clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch that contrasts with the cake’s soft crumb. A light dusting of extra cinnamon or a few thin apple slices on top can also enhance the presentation and flavor experience perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a small bowl of warm spiced apple compote. These accompaniments highlight the cake’s cozy spices and fresh apple notes while adding contrasting textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve slices on rustic wooden boards or vintage plates adorned with fall leaves or cinnamon sticks. You can even cut the cake into cubes and serve it as part of a dessert buffet or trifle, layering with custard and fruit for an impressive twist on the Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate up to five days. This keeps the cake moist and the glaze intact without drying out.

Freezing

The cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before glazing or serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven wrapped loosely in foil to bring back that fresh-baked taste. This step is perfect if you want to enjoy the Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe just out of the oven warmth any time you like.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work well to balance the sweetness, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp can also give the cake a lovely gentle apple flavor. Just be sure to dry the grated apples between paper towels to avoid adding too much moisture.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just double-check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well for best results.

Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?

Definitely! You can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand with a sturdy whisk and wooden spoon. Just be sure to cream the butter and sugars until fluffy to mimic the texture achieved by a stand mixer.

What if I don’t have apple cider? Can I substitute something else?

If you don’t have apple cider, try using apple juice mixed with a splash of fresh lemon juice to add acidity. The cider adds tanginess and moisture, so keep that in mind when making substitutions.

How thick should the cinnamon glaze be?

The glaze should be pourable but thick enough to hold its shape once drizzled. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar a little at a time. If too thick, add a teaspoon of cream or milk until you reach the perfect consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing quite like baking a slice of fall into your kitchen, and this Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe does exactly that with grace and warmth. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again, whether for special occasions or a sweet everyday treat. So grab your spatula and baking pan, and let this cake bring that comforting, spice-filled magic straight to your table!

Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe