Cinnamon Apple Spice Cake

Instructions

Prep

1. Step
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch pan (or two 8-inch rounds).

Mix the Batter

1. Step
   In a large bowl, cream together ½ cup butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
2. Step
   In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Step
   Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture in batches, mixing on low speed.
4. Step
   Add applesauce, milk, and vanilla extract, blending until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

1. Step
   Pour batter into the greased pan. Bake 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.

Caramelize the Apples

1. Step
   While the cake is baking, in a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2. Step
   Cook 5–7 minutes until soft and golden.
3. Step
   Let cool slightly.

Make the Frosting

1. Step
   Beat 1 cup butter and ½ cup cream cheese until smooth.
2. Step
   Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk as needed until fluffy and spreadable.

Assemble

1. Step
   Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Spoon caramelized apples on top (or drizzle with caramel if desired).
2. Step
   Chill for 20 minutes to set before slicing.