Authentic Apple Stack Cake
A traditional Southern dessert featuring layers of spice cake and apple filling, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Equipment
- 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Apple Filling
- 4 cups peeled and sliced apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, until a smooth batter forms. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Apple Filling
- In a saucepan, combine the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft and the mixture is thickened, about 15 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Assembling the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the apple filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining apple filling.
- Let the cake sit for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Let the cake sit overnight for enhanced flavor. Ingredient Substitutions: Use pears or peaches instead of apples for a twist. How to Serve: Best served with a dollop of whipped cream. Storage & Freshness: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the apple filling a day in advance to save time.