If you’re searching for a cozy treat that perfectly balances tender apple-spiced cake and a luscious, savory frosting, this Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine tender bits of crisp honeycrisp apple baked right into a moist cake, topped with an irresistibly creamy frosting made from brown butter and cream cheese that brings a subtle saltiness to every bite. It’s the kind of dessert you’ll want to share with friends, but secretly savor for yourself again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the rich, melted salted butter adding depth to the batter, to the warming spices that give the cake its inviting aroma, every component counts.
- Salted butter (4 tablespoons): Provides a rich, savory foundation both in the cake and frosting.
- Unsweetened applesauce (1 cup): Adds natural moisture and tender crumb without extra sugar.
- Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients together and help with the cake’s structure.
- Pure maple syrup (½ cup): Brings natural sweetness with a subtle caramel note.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Elevates the cake’s flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups): The backbone for the cake texture; gluten-free substitute works well too.
- Baking powder and baking soda (1 tsp & ½ tsp): Ensure a light and fluffy rise.
- Warm spices (cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg): Create a cozy spice blend that complements the apples perfectly.
- Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- Chopped honeycrisp apple (2 cups): Adds fresh bursts of juicy sweetness and texture throughout the cake.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces): For a silky, tangy frosting that pairs beautifully with the brown butter.
- Powdered sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the frosting with a smooth finish.
- Flaky sea salt and cinnamon (for topping): Final touches that bring crunch and a hint of spice on top.
How to Make Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to get that perfect even heat going. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and give it a quick spray of nonstick cooking spray. This setup ensures your cake will bake evenly and come out easily without sticking.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together melted salted butter, unsweetened applesauce, room-temperature eggs, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. This mixture creates a smooth base filled with moist, natural sweetness that will keep your cake tender and flavorful from the inside out.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients Separately
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and kosher salt. These dry ingredients bring the warm, comforting aroma and help your cake rise beautifully. Once combined, gently fold this into the wet ingredients—remember, don’t overmix to keep the crumb light.
Step 4: Fold in the Chopped Apples
Now, the star of the show: add the chopped honeycrisp apples into the batter. These juicy pieces spread bursts of fresh apple flavor throughout every bite, giving the cake an irresistible sweet-tart note and natural texture.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface gently with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cooling completely before frosting is key so your cream cheese topping stays perfect and doesn’t melt.
Step 6: Brown the Butter for Frosting
While the cake bakes and cools, brown the butter for the frosting by melting it slowly over medium heat. Whisk constantly until it reaches a nutty golden amber stage, about 5 to 8 minutes—watch that color closely! Pour the browned butter into a bowl and chill in the fridge until it firms up but isn’t rock solid, so it whips smoothly with the cream cheese.
Step 7: Make the Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the cooled brown butter until fluffy, about a minute. Add the softened cream cheese and keep beating till creamy and fully combined. Then add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, whipping well for 2 to 3 minutes to get a velvety, light frosting that perfectly balances sweet and salty.
Step 8: Frost and Finish Your Cake
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled apple cake. For a final touch, sprinkle lightly with cinnamon and a generous pinch of flaky sea salt for that extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Cut into 16 squares and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
This cake shines when garnished simply but thoughtfully. A sprinkle of cinnamon dust and flaky sea salt adds that beautiful contrast in flavor and a little crunch that grabs your attention with every bite. Fresh apple slices or a few chopped nuts tossed on top can add texture and eye appeal as well.
Side Dishes
Pair your apple snacking cake with a warm mug of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate cozy moment. For a heartier snack session, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside turns this into a decadent treat without overwhelming its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at brunch or a dessert gathering? Serve individual cake squares in small glass jars topped with frosting and a cinnamon sprinkle for a charming presentation. Alternately, slice into bite-sized cubes and serve on a platter with miniature forks, making it perfect for sharing and snacking throughout the day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe keeps beautifully when stored properly. Cover the cake tightly and refrigerate it to maintain freshness; it will stay moist and flavorful for up to 5 days—perfect if you want to savor it gradually.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, you can freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then prepare the frosting freshly to spread on top.
Reheating
For a freshly baked vibe, warm individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds before frosting or serving. Avoid heating the frosted cake as the frosting may soften too much and lose its texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?
Absolutely! While honeycrisp apples add a perfect balance of sweetness and crispness, other firm apples like Fuji or Granny Smith work well too, each bringing their unique flavor.
Is it necessary to brown the butter for the frosting?
Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty richness that makes the frosting special. You can skip this step, but the frosting won’t have quite the same complexity and warmth that complements the apple cake so perfectly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the cake’s texture moist and tender.
How long does the frosting take to beat until light and fluffy?
When using a mixer, it typically takes 2 to 3 minutes to achieve the perfect fluffy and creamy texture. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps and ensure smooth mixing.
Can I turn this snacking cake into cupcakes?
Definitely! Spoon the batter into lined cupcake tins and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Frost once fully cooled, and you’ll have adorable, portion-controlled treats perfect for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe has everything you could want in a comforting dessert: bright apple bites, warm spices, and a frosting that truly elevates the whole experience with its salty-sweet charm. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and makes every gathering feel a little more special. I encourage you to make it soon—it’s truly a keeper that you’ll want to come back to season after season.
Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This Apple Snacking Cake with Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a lightly spiced apple dessert. Made with applesauce and fresh honeycrisp apples, it combines warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with a delectable salted brown butter cream cheese frosting. This cake is easy to make, baked in a single pan, and cuts into 16 satisfying slices, ideal for sharing or snacking throughout the week.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons (56 grams) salted butter, melted
- 1 cup (250 grams) unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- ½ cup (156 grams) pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups (210 grams) all purpose flour (or sub gluten free all purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Mix-Ins:
- 2 cups chopped honeycrisp apple (from 1 large apple), peeled, cored and cut into ¼ inch pieces
For the Salted Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 tablespoons (56 grams) salted butter, sliced
- 4 ounces (112 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups (170 grams) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of kosher salt
For Topping:
- Cinnamon
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted salted butter, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the chopped honeycrisp apples.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Brew the brown butter: While the cake bakes and cools, melt butter for the frosting in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly as it melts and begins to crackle, then foam. Continue whisking until the butter turns a golden amber brown color and emits a nutty aroma, about 5 to 8 minutes total. Pour the brown butter into a small bowl and chill in the fridge for 45 to 60 minutes until it reaches a softened, room-temperature-like consistency but is not completely hardened. If it becomes too hard, allow it to soften at room temperature.
- Make the frosting: Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment or a hand mixer, beat the cooled brown butter on high speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 1 minute. Add the softened cream cheese and continue to beat on high until creamy, about 1 minute. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Frost and garnish: Spread the salted brown butter cream cheese frosting evenly over the completely cooled cake. Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon and a generous pinch of flaky sea salt atop the frosting for added flavor and texture. Cut the cake into 16 slices and serve.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- This recipe can be made gluten free by using a gluten free all purpose flour blend.
- Ensure the eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for best mixing results.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and moist.
- Brown butter must be cooled to a soft but not hardened state before making the frosting for the ideal texture.
- Use fresh honeycrisp apples for the best flavor and texture. Other firm, sweet apple varieties can be substituted if needed.
- Leftover cake is best kept refrigerated and consumed within 5 days.
