### Apple Butter Spice Cake Recipe: A Festive Treat
Are you looking to add a cozy twist to your baking routine? Try making an Apple Butter Spice Cake! This delicious cake combines the rich flavors of apple butter with aromatic spices, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
#### Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9-inch cake pan
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
### Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Apple Butter Spice Cake
1. **Preheat Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step can take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract**: Add one egg at a time to the butter mixture while continuing to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract during the last mixing process.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the apple butter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
6. **Fold in Spices**: Gently fold in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to ensure even distribution of spices throughout the batter.
7. **Pour Batter into Pan**: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Use a spatula or spoon to smooth out the surface if needed.
8. **Bake the Cake**: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. **Cooling and Serving**: Once done baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly!
### Tips for Perfect Results
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a layer of apple butter frosting between the layers or as a glaze over the top.
- You can also vary the spices according to your taste preferences. Add more cinnamon if you want it sweeter or mix in some ginger or cloves for a different twist.
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Enjoy crafting this delightful Apple Butter Spice Cake and savoring its warm, comforting flavors!