Spice Cake with Brown Sugar: A Delightful Autumn Treat

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Spice Cake with Brown is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This moist and fragrant cake is bursting with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. The addition of tangy sour cream and apple sauce not only enhances its texture but also makes it a truly memorable treat. Topped with a rich Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting, this cake is perfect for cozy family gatherings or festive celebrations. Let’s explore how to create this delicious spice cake with brown sugar!

Why You’ll Love This Spice Cake with Brown

This spice cake with brown sugar is not just any cake; it’s a comforting treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore it:

Moist and tender crumb thanks to the brown sugar and apple sauce.
Rich flavors from a blend of classic spices that dance on your palate.
Easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy bakers.
Perfect for fall gatherings, adding a festive touch to your dessert table.
Pairs beautifully with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
This is a traditional brown sugar spice cake that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Spice Cake with Brown

Gather these items:

2 3/4 cups (350g) all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 tsp cardamom
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
2 cups (380g) light brown sugar, packed
1 cup (200ml) vegetable or canola oil
1 cup (235g) unsweetened apple sauce
4 large eggs, room temperature
3 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup (200g) sour cream, room temperature
1 cup (220g) unsalted butter
16 oz (450g) cream cheese, room temperature
5 cups (600g) powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon sticks
Candied nuts (half the recipe)

How to Make Spice Cake with Brown Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in a large bowl.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, vegetable oil, and apple sauce. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
Step 3: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, folding until just combined.
Step 4: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. Divide batter between pans and smooth tops. Bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
Step 5: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until golden brown and nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool to room temperature.
Step 6: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add cooled brown butter, mixing continuously. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable.
Step 7: Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top. Add second layer and frost top and sides.
Step 8: Decorate with cinnamon sticks and candied nuts. Chill briefly to set frosting before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Spice Cake with Brown

Keep these in mind:

This cake is perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Experiment with different spices for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve Spice Cake with Brown

This delightful moist spice cake with brown sugar is best served with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai or a rich coffee. Consider serving it at your next holiday gathering for a festive touch!

How to Store and Reheat Spice Cake with Brown

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spice Cake with Brown

What is spice cake with brown sugar?

It’s a deliciously moist cake made with brown sugar that enhances the flavor, resulting in a rich and warm dessert perfect for any occasion.

Can I make spice cake with brown sugar ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap until you’re ready to frost and serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with spice cake with brown sugar?

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense texture. Using room temperature ingredients also helps achieve a better rise.

Variations of Spice Cake with Brown You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

Add chopped nuts or raisins for added texture.
Try a cream cheese frosting instead of brown butter frosting for a tangy twist.
Incorporate pumpkin puree for a delightful fall flavor.

Each variation offers a unique take on this classic recipe, ensuring there’s something for everyone!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or try our Cozy Apple Kringle. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake and Creamy Pumpkin Soup for a comforting meal. For more information on the benefits of spices, visit Healthline.