Apple Butter Cake

Okay, so you know that cozy smell of apples and spice filling the kitchen? That’s exactly what this Apple Butter Cake brings. It feels like fall in every single bite.

The first time I made it, I couldn’t believe how moist and flavorful it turned out. The apple butter gives it this rich sweetness that makes it so special. I kept going back for just one more slice.

What I love is how easy it is but how comforting it tastes. It’s perfect with coffee in the morning or warm with ice cream at night. Honestly, it’s the kind of cake that makes everyone happy.

So let’s bake this Apple Butter Cake together. It’s simple, cozy, and one recipe you’ll want to save for every fall season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: Apple butter infuses the cake with deep, rich apple and spice notes.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to butter and apple butter, this cake stays soft and fresh for days.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this cake beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for Fall: The flavors of cinnamon, apple, and vanilla create the ultimate autumn dessert.
• Versatile: Serve as a snack cake, dessert, or even as a coffee cake with your morning brew!

Required Kitchen Tools

• Electric mixer (hand or stand mixer)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper (for round pans, optional)
• Spatula for spreading frosting

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious cake (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

For the Cake:

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (room temperature) for richness and moisture.
• Sugar: 2 cups for the perfect level of sweetness.
• Eggs: 4 large (room temperature) to help bind the cake together.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups for structure and a tender crumb.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to balance flavors.
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons for the perfect rise.
• Apple Butter: 1/2 cup to infuse every bite with deep apple flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons for added warmth and depth.

For the Frosting:

• Cream Cheese: 1 (8-ounce) block (room temperature) for creaminess.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (room temperature) to add richness.
• Apple Butter: 3 tablespoons for a burst of apple goodness.
• Powdered Sugar: 1 (16-ounce) package (about 3 3/4 cups) for sweetness and smoothness.

Variations for Apple Butter Cake

• Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg to enhance the fall flavors.
• Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting for an indulgent touch.
• Layer Cake: Use two 9-inch round pans and stack the layers with frosting in between.
• Maple Frosting: Substitute part of the powdered sugar with maple syrup for extra fall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the apple butter and vanilla. Mix until just combined.

2. Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

3. Make the Apple Butter Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the apple butter and mix until well incorporated.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

4. Frost the Cake

1. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts, if desired.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Apple Butter Cake

This cake is delicious on its own, but here are some creative ways to serve it:

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
• With Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence.
• With a Dusting of Cinnamon: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon over the frosting for a decorative touch.
• With Chopped Nuts: Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

Storing Apple Butter Cake

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow slices to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories	Carbs	Fat	Protein	Sugar
320	45g	15g	4g	32g

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on exact ingredient measurements.)

Apple Butter Cake FAQs

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes! Homemade apple butter will add even more depth of flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake the cake a day in advance and frost it before serving.

Can I make this without frosting?

Yes, this cake is delicious on its own or with a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Enjoy this Apple Butter Cake and let me know how you like it!