Apple Butter Sheet Cake Recipe

Apple butter sheet cake is a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall with warm spices and rich apple flavor. This cake features a moist, tender crumb infused with apple butter and a subtle blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove—classic autumn spices that create a comforting treat.

Baking it in a sheet pan makes it an easy, fuss-free option for gatherings or everyday indulgence. Combining pantry staples with apple butter’s deep, concentrated apple taste, this cake delivers layers of flavor without overwhelming sweetness.

It’s versatile for serving — delightful on its own, topped with a simple glaze, or paired with creamy accompaniments like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this recipe for the first time, this guide will walk you through every detail for a perfect apple butter sheet cake every time.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a concise list of the essential ingredients to create a rich, flavorful apple butter sheet cake. Understanding each component helps ensure optimal texture and taste.

• 1 cup salted butter, melted — adds moisture, richness, and helps tenderize the cake.

• 1 cup 2% milk — balances fat and moisture; whole milk can be used for a richer crumb.

• 1/2 cup apple butter — the star ingredient that provides concentrated apple flavor and natural sweetness.

• 1 cup granulated sugar — sweetens and assists with cake structure.

• 1 cup light brown sugar — adds moisture and a subtle molasses note enhancing depth of flavor.

• 2 large eggs — bind ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — enhances flavor complexity.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour — the foundation for the cake’s texture.

• 1 teaspoon baking soda — leavens the cake for a light, fluffy crumb.

• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice — a warming blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to complement the apple butter.

• Powdered sugar (for glaze)

• Apple cider or apple juice (for glaze) — adds a tart contrast and complements the apple theme.

• Optional toppings: chopped pecans or walnuts, fresh apple slices, cinnamon for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve a moist and flavorful apple butter sheet cake with ease.

Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12×17-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, apple butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and apple pie spice to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it smoothly with a spatula.

Baking the Cake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes.

2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

3. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before glazing.

Preparing and Applying the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup melted butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon maple extract (optional), and 2-3 tablespoons hot apple cider or apple juice.

2. Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more liquid or powdered sugar as needed for smooth, pourable texture.

3. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak in slightly.

4. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts or thin apple slices over the glaze before it sets.

Tips for Perfect Apple Butter Sheet Cake

Ensure a flawless baking experience by keeping these tips in mind:

• Use room temperature eggs and milk to promote better mixing and cake rise.

• Don’t overmix the batter once flour is added to avoid a dense, tough crumb.

• Check oven temperature with an oven thermometer to avoid under or overbaking.

• Customize spices by adjusting the apple pie spice blend or adding fresh grated nutmeg or cinnamon for more pronounced flavor.

• Allow the cake to cool fully before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.

• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives.

• Add texture by folding in chopped nuts or raisins into the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance the eating experience with these serving ideas:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic pairing.

• Add a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup for extra sweetness and richness.

• Garnish with fresh apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an inviting presentation.

• Pair slices with a cup of hot spiced tea, coffee, or apple cider to complement the cake’s warm flavors.

• Cut into small squares for potlucks or parties, and serve alongside cheese boards featuring sharp cheddar or gouda.

Final Thoughts

Apple butter sheet cake is a versatile and delicious dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of fall with the ease of simple preparation. Its moist crumb, enriched by apple butter and spiced perfectly with apple pie spice, makes it a comforting treat for any occasion.

By following the detailed steps and tips shared here, even novice bakers can achieve a stunning, flavorful cake that impresses family and friends alike.

Whether enjoyed plain, glazed, or paired with ice cream and nuts, this cake embodies seasonal warmth and sweet satisfaction in every bite.

Try this recipe to add a reliable, crowd-pleasing dessert to your baking repertoire that celebrates the rich flavors of apple butter in a convenient sheet cake format.