Super Moist Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Super Moist Spice Cake is a deliciously soft and flavorful dessert made with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, and kept extra moist with applesauce and shredded apple. Topped with a creamy, homemade cream cheese frosting, this easy spice cake recipe is perfect for fall, holidays, or any time you crave a cozy dessert. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this spice cake with cream cheese frosting is an ideal choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday baking.

Ingredients

Cake

• 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup (240ml) canola or vegetable oil
• 1 3/4 cups (350g) packed dark brown sugar
• 1 cup (180g) unsweetened applesauce
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded apple (or substitute with shredded carrot or zucchini)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon molasses for richer flavor

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces (224g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3 cups (360g) confectioners’ sugar, plus 1/4 cup if needed
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13-inch cake pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the oil, dark brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-blended.
4. Combine and Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the shredded apple (or carrot/zucchini) and, if using, molasses.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and salt, and beat until fluffy. Adjust with more sugar for desired consistency.
7. Frost and Chill: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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Tips

• Moisture Boost: Add a tablespoon of molasses or use an extra half-cup of applesauce for an even moister cake.
• Grated Apple: Make sure to use a sweet, crisp apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, to keep the frosting fresh.

Variations and Substitutions

• Applesauce Substitute: Use pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired twist.
• Spice Mix: Add a pinch of cardamom for a unique flavor boost.
• Frosting Options: Swap cream cheese frosting for a light dusting of powdered sugar or a caramel glaze.

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! This cake stays moist for a few days. Simply store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the cake may be denser.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this spice cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee. It’s also delicious with a side of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Super Moist Spice Cake is loaded with cozy flavors from cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, making it perfect for any season. The applesauce and shredded apple keep it incredibly moist, while the tangy cream cheese frosting adds a smooth and creamy finish. Easy to make and full of warm spices, this cake is sure to be a hit at gatherings, holidays, or as a comforting dessert for the family!