Apple Butter Snack Cake

There’s something magical about the cozy aroma of baking that fills the house, and when it’s a Apple Butter Snack Cake, it’s even more special. This cake isn’t just any dessert; it’s a warm hug from the inside out. I remember the first time I made it, the golden-brown crust and sweet scent wafting through the air brought back memories of fall days spent at the orchard, picking fresh apples. Each slice reveals a moist, tender crumb infused with the rich flavor of apple butter, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

This recipe is dear to my heart, a staple at family gatherings and holiday feasts. It’s the kind of cake that invites everyone to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over slices topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of brown butter icing. Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a festive dessert, the Apple Butter Snack Cake never fails to impress.

Ingredient List for Apple Butter Snack Cake

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the delightful harmony of flavors and textures. The combination of butter, apple butter, and honeycrisp apples brings about a perfect balance of richness and fruity freshness. Each element works together to create a cake that is moist, tender, and packed with flavor.

• ½ cup butter, melted – The melted butter adds richness and moisture, helping create that tender crumb.
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar – This ingredient brings sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
• 1 cup apple butter – A key ingredient in this cake, it infuses the batter with deep apple flavor and moistness.
• 2 large eggs – Eggs help bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla – Vanilla adds a lovely aromatic quality that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cake, providing the necessary structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps the cake rise, giving it a light texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Works in conjunction with the acids in the apple butter for leavening.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – A warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
• 2 honeycrisp apples – Fresh apples add texture and bursts of flavor.
• powdered sugar, for sprinkling – Adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal when dusted on top.
• 6 tablespoons butter – This is for the brown butter icing, adding a nutty depth of flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a sweet glaze to drizzle on top of the cake.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the icing.
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk – Adjust the consistency of the icing to your liking.

Directions for Apple Butter Snack Cake

Making the Apple Butter Snack Cake is a straightforward process that anyone can tackle, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. The steps are easy to follow, ensuring you end up with a delightful dessert that will impress. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Take a 9×13 baking dish and spray it with nonstick baking spray to ensure your cake doesn’t stick. This is a crucial step that ensures an easy release later.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar. Make sure to whisk until it’s well combined and looks slightly fluffy — this will help incorporate air for a better texture.
3. Next, add in the apple butter, mixing it until fully combined with the butter and sugar mixture. This adds a lovely apple flavor and moisture to the cake.
4. Crack in the eggs one at a time, making sure to whisk well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla and give it another good mix.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients and ensures your cake rises evenly.
6. Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; over-mixing can lead to a tough cake, so be careful!
7. Grate one of the honeycrisp apples and fold it into the batter. This ingredient adds texture and fresh apple flavor throughout.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Take the other honeycrisp apple, thinly slice it, and remove the seeds. Arrange the slices on top of the batter for a beautiful presentation.
10. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.
11. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with your prepared brown butter icing for an extra touch of sweetness.
12. For the icing, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until brown bits form. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Add in milk one tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is achieved. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Making Adjustments

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some tips for making adjustments to your Apple Butter Snack Cake.

• Storage: Once cooled, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil for best results.
• Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for added texture. Walnuts, pecans, or raisins can elevate the flavors.
• Apple Choices: While I love using honeycrisp apples, any firm apple variety will work well, such as Fuji or Braeburn.
• Glazing Options: Experiment with different glazes or frostings, like cream cheese frosting, for a unique twist on the classic.

What Complements This Apple Butter Snack Cake

When it comes to serving your Apple Butter Snack Cake, there are countless delightful options that can enhance the experience. Here are some suggestions:

• Coffee or Tea: This cake is perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal afternoon treat.
• Ice Cream: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert.
• Fruit Salad: Pair your cake with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the cake.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream can lighten the dessert and add a lovely presentation.
• Nut Toppings: Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top can add a delightful crunch.
• Seasonal Spices: Consider a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top when serving for an extra festive touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Apple Butter Snack Cake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout dessert for any gathering. Its moist crumb and warm spices create an inviting experience that brings everyone together. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll be glad you did!

Apple Butter Snack Cake

The ultimate comfort dessert, the Apple Butter Snack Cake is rich, moist, and bursting with apple flavor. With a tender crumb and a delightful brown butter icing, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a slice today and let the warmth of fall fill your home!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Oven
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup butter melted
• 1 ½ cup brown sugar packed
• 1 cup apple butter
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 medium honeycrisp apples
• 1 cup powdered sugar for sprinkling
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick baking spray.
• In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar. Whisk in the apple butter. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla.
• In a smaller bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
• Grate one of the honeycrisp apples. Stir it into the batter. Pour the batter into the baking dish.
• Thinly slice the remaining honeycrisp apple and remove the seeds. Place it on top of the batter.
• Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Remove the cake and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle it with powdered sugar. And/or drizzle with the brown butter icing.
• Place the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook and let the mixture bubble, stirring occasionally, until brown bits begin to appear on the bottom. Once the brown bits appear, turn the heat off and continue to stir for about 30 seconds. Let the butter cool slightly.
• Whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. You want a smooth glaze, so add in 1 tablespoon of milk at a time, whisking until smooth and drizzle-able. Drizzle or spread on the cake!

Notes

Keyword Apple Butter Cake, Easy Apple Desserts, Fall Dessert Recipes, Homemade Cake Recipes

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!