Name: Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
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 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/3 cup apple cider (not apple juice); 1/3 cup fresh apple, peeled and grated (moisture pressed out 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· 4.2 from 2 reviews

If you love the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a deliciously moist treat, you are going to adore this Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of tender cake infused with warming spices and fresh apple, topped off with a smooth, fragrant cinnamon glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or craving a comforting homemade dessert, this recipe feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl containing a creamy beige batter with small chunks of light brown mixed in. A white spatula with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl, slightly covered in the batter. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and the texture of the batter looks smooth yet thick. The spatula’s position suggests it has just been used to mix the contents. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe truly outstanding is how simple, everyday ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and moist texture. Each component plays a key role—from the buttery base to the fresh apple adding natural sweetness and moisture, and the cinnamon glaze tying everything together with that irresistible finishing touch.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, room temperature): Provides rich moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances sweetness and helps with cake’s light texture.
Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds caramel notes and keeps the cake moist.
Large eggs (3, room temperature): Bind the ingredients and add richness.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
All-purpose flour (2 cups, spooned and leveled): The primary structure of the cake.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Ensures your cake rises perfectly and stays light.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
Ground cinnamon (1 1/4 tsp): Infuses classic spicy warmth.
Ground ginger (1/4 tsp): Adds subtle zing and complexity.
Apple cider (1/3 cup): Brings moisture and a touch of fruity acidity.
Fresh apple, peeled and grated (1/3 cup): Adds freshness and natural sweetness—make sure to drain excess moisture!
Powdered sugar (1 cup, sifted): For the luscious cinnamon glaze.
Heavy cream or whole milk (4 to 5 tbsp): Creates the perfect glaze consistency.
Cinnamon (1/8 tsp): Gives the glaze its signature spice note.

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. Line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides—it makes lifting the cake out after baking a breeze. This small prep step sets you up for an easy removal and beautifully shaped cake.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This process incorporates air and ensures your cake has a tender, airy texture that’s just irresistible.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will deepen the flavor profile with its sweet, aromatic notes.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Mixing the spices with the flour guarantees even distribution of flavor throughout the cake.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Apple Cider

Add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture in thirds, alternating with the apple cider starting and ending with the flour mixture. This alternating method keeps the batter light and silky, while the apple cider adds moisture and subtle apple flavor.

Step 6: Fold in the Grated Apple

Remove the bowl from the mixer and gently fold in the grated, well-drained apple using a spatula. Folding carefully prevents overworking the batter and ensures those lovely apple pieces stay intact to create pockets of moist apple goodness within the cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake in the center of the oven for about 55 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, tent it with foil to avoid burning while the inside cooks perfectly.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. While it cools, prepare your cinnamon glaze by whisking together sifted powdered sugar, heavy cream, and cinnamon until smooth. Once the cake is fully cool, drizzle the glaze generously over the top for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Two slices of light brown cake with a soft and crumbly texture lie flat on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The bottom slice is partially covered with a smooth white glaze slightly dripping over one edge, while the top slice shows no glaze. A silver knife with a cream-colored handle rests near the top right corner of the paper. The scene is brightly lit, showing the cake's details clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts pairs beautifully with this cake, adding a delightful crunch and nuttiness that complements the spices. Fresh apple slices or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze also make for a simple yet elegant finish that will wow your guests.

Side Dishes

Serve a generous slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic pairing that balances warmth and creaminess. A hot cup of chai tea or spiced coffee also enhances the cake’s cozy, seasonal flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch centerpiece, slice the loaf and arrange the pieces on a rustic wooden board with bowls of fresh fruit and nut butters for guests to mix and match flavors. You could even transform the cake into a trifle by layering cubes with custard and caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the cake is glazed and fully cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and flavorful for up to three days. For longer storage, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil ensures it won’t dry out.

Freezing

This Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled, unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before glazing and serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F) wrapped loosely in foil to revive that freshly baked feel. If you want to enjoy the glaze, drizzle a little extra before serving and enjoy that melty, flavorful finish.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Apple cider is preferred because it adds extra depth and a slight tartness that apple juice lacks. However, if you only have apple juice, you can use it, but consider reducing other liquids slightly to maintain texture.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling apples is recommended to avoid bits of tough skin in your cake. The grated apple’s moisture plays a big role, so peeling ensures a tender, smooth texture while still delivering fresh apple flavor.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the spices and apple will shine through beautifully.

Is this cake suitable for freezing after glazing?

It’s best to freeze the cake before adding the cinnamon glaze. The glaze can change texture after freezing and thawing, so apply it fresh once the cake is defrosted for the best taste and appearance.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The most reliable way is with a toothpick inserted into the cake’s center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. You can also gently press the cake top—it should spring back when pressed lightly.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe is a delightful kitchen companion that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you’re cozying up on a quiet afternoon or sharing it with loved ones, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels just like home. I can’t wait for you to bake this and experience the magic for yourself!