Triple Layer Apple Spice Cake

Indulge in the Magic of Triple Layer Apple Spice Cake

Imagine walking into a warm kitchen filled with the heavenly aroma of spiced apples, cinnamon, and vanilla wafting through the air. It’s the kind of scent that wraps around you like a cozy blanket, inviting you to take a seat and savor something sweet. This isn't just any cake; this is a Triple Layer Apple Spice Cake, a dessert that embodies comfort and nostalgia. Each layer tells a story, merging fluffy cake with spiced apple filling and a luscious frosting that will elevate your taste buds to cloud nine. But what makes this cake truly special is not just its delightful flavors; it’s the smiles it brings, the gatherings it graces, and the memories it creates. So, are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create a cake that will impress everyone around the table?

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup diced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• For the Apple Filling:
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for consistency)

Preparation Steps

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cook Time:

30-35 minutes

Servings:

12 servings

Calories:

Approximately 350 calories per slice

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
4. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
6. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
7. Assemble the Cake: Place one layer of cake on a serving plate and spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Spoon half of the apple filling over the frosting. Repeat this process with the second layer. Top with the final cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
8. Decorate: Optionally, garnish the top with thinly sliced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or crushed nuts. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.

Common Q&A

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their tartness and flavor, you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Gala, depending on your taste preference.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Assemble and frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese. You can also use whipped coconut cream for a lighter frosting, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Tips and Variations

• Tip: Always use room temperature ingredients for the batter and frosting – this helps to ensure a smooth and even mixture.
• Variation: For a more festive twist, add walnuts or pecans into the cake batter or sprinkle them between the layers for added texture.
• Substitution: If you're out of applesauce, you can substitute with equal parts of mashed bananas for a different flavor profile.
• Serving Suggestion: This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee for an evening treat.

Conclusion

As you take that first bite of your Triple Layer Apple Spice Cake, let the comforting blend of spices and sweet apples transport you to cozy autumn nights. It's more than just a dessert – it’s a centerpiece for gatherings, a story shared over tea, and a treat that evokes warmth and happiness. The beauty of baking this cake lies not only in savoring the delightful flavors but also in the joy of creating something truly special. So, the next time you're in the mood for a slice of heaven, know that this cake has the power to transform a simple moment into a cherished memory. Happy baking!