Watching the Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream come together is always a delight.
The Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream rich, spiced flavor from the apple butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg pairs perfectly with the creamy, molasses-infused brown sugar buttercream, creating an irresistible dessert.
It’s my best choice because it combines warmth and sweetness in a way that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
I made it for a close-knit group of friends who truly appreciate homemade treats, and seeing their excitement while I was preparing it made the experience even more special.
The process in the kitchen flowed easily, with laughter filling the air as I layered the cake and frosted it.
The cake came out beautifully, and it was a perfect centerpiece for our gathering. The compliments flowed, making it clear this is a dessert I’ll make again and again.
Why You Choose Apple Butter Cake With Brown Sugar Buttercream?
Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream is more than just a dessert—it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that captivates the senses.
Here’s why it deserves a place on your baking roster:
2. Rich Flavor Profile: The cake layers are infused with the deep, caramelized sweetness of apple butter, complemented by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
3. Creamy Buttercream: Topped with a velvety smooth frosting made from brown sugar, butter, and vanilla, the cake achieves a perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
4. Versatility: Suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations, this cake appeals to a wide range of palates.Top of Form
How To Prepare Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream?
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per slice (based on a 12-slice yield)
- Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring spoons and cups
- 9-inch round cake pans (or equivalent)
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Sifter (optional, for dry ingredients)
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Ingredients
For the Apple Butter Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Brown Sugar Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons molasses
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, and line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Apple Butter:
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the apple butter and continue to beat until fully combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients in 2-3 batches, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake Layers:
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Brown Sugar Buttercream:
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream. Beat the softened unsalted butter in a large bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, brown sugar, and molasses, beating on low speed until smooth. Once combined, increase the speed to medium and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
9. Adjust the Consistency:
If the frosting is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
10. Frost the Cake:
Once the cakes have completely cooled, place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of brown sugar buttercream over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and serve your delicious Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream. Enjoy!
Special Note
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste and text
My Tips For Making
1. If possible, use homemade apple butter for a richer, more intense flavor. It adds a personal touch and elevates the cake’s taste.
2. After making the brown sugar buttercream, chill it for about 15-20 minutes before frosting. This helps it firm up, making it easier to spread smoothly on the cake.
3. When adding the dry ingredients and milk to the batter, alternate between them to ensure the cake is light and evenly mixed without overworking the batter.
4. For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter, which enhances the texture without compromising the flavor.
5. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few thin apple slices on top of the frosted cake for an elegant finish that enhances the overall presentation and flavor.
Amazing Serving Ideas
For amazing serving ideas, try pairing the Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
You can also serve it with a side of warm caramel sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness. For a more festive touch, garnish with thin apple slices, a dusting of cinnamon, or crushed pecans.
These simple additions will enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of the cake, making it perfect for any gathering or celebration.
FAQs
Can I substitute apple butter with regular applesauce?
While apple butter provides a deeper flavor, you can use applesauce as a substitute. However, the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
Can I make the brown sugar buttercream ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the buttercream in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature and re-whip before frosting the cake.
How can I make the cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthene gum to maintain the cake’s structure.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the fridge before frosting.
How can I make the frosting less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, use less powdered sugar and add a pinch more salt or a touch of vanilla extract for a more balanced flavor.
Conclusion
The Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream is a perfect blend of flavors that makes it a standout dessert.
Its warm, spiced cake combined with the rich, sweet buttercream creates an unforgettable treat. Making it for friends and sharing the process in the kitchen adds to the joy of creating something special.
The excitement and compliments from everyone confirmed that this cake is a favorite. It’s a dessert that brings comfort, warmth, and happiness, making it my go-to choice for any occasion.
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Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring spoons and cups
- 9-inch round cake pans (or equivalent)
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Sifter (optional, for dry ingredients)
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Ingredients
For the Apple Butter Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Brown Sugar Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons molasses
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, and line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Apple Butter:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the apple butter and continue to beat until fully combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients in 2-3 batches, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake Layers:
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Brown Sugar Buttercream:
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream. Beat the softened unsalted butter in a large bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, brown sugar, and molasses, beating on low speed until smooth. Once combined, increase the speed to medium and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
Adjust the Consistency:
- If the frosting is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Frost the Cake:
- Once the cakes have completely cooled, place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of brown sugar buttercream over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve your delicious Apple Butter Cake with Brown Sugar Buttercream. Enjoy!