Embrace the rich flavors of autumn with this traditional English Apple Cake. This delightful dessert combines the crispness of Granny Smith apples with the warmth of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon, all wrapped up in a luxurious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any fall gathering, this cake is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and cozy spices.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp fine salt
- 3-4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely grated
- 4 large eggs
- 1¼ cups canola oil
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ⅔ cups light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
For the Cream Cheese Buttercream:
- 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 pounds powdered sugar, sifted
- Optional food gel for coloring
Directions:
- Cake Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round baking pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Using paper towels, gently press the grated apples to remove excess moisture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, canola oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently. Stir in the dried apples and toasted walnuts.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, tapping them on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and gradually incorporate the sifted powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- If desired, add a few drops of food gel to achieve your preferred color.
- Assembly:
- Level the cakes if necessary. Place one layer on your cake stand or serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on the first layer.
- Top with the second cake layer and apply a smooth layer of frosting over the entire cake.
Preparation Tips:
- Dry the Apples: Ensure that the grated apples are well-dried to maintain the cake’s structure and prevent sogginess.
- Enhance Flavors: Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter will enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch.
- Cooling: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to ensure the frosting stays firm and doesn’t melt.
Serving Suggestion: Serve this beautiful cake as a centerpiece at your next autumn celebration, or enjoy a slice as a decadent afternoon treat. Pair with a warm cup of cider or coffee for the ultimate experience.
Total Prep and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
This English Apple Cake not only brings the traditional flavors of a British autumn to your table but also offers a gorgeous presentation that’s sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the harmonious blend of spices, apples, and creamy frosting in each slice!