- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (to add moisture; use keywords like "creamy texture" or "moist cake")
- Vanilla extract (redundant but important for keyword optimization)
- Maple syrup (a natural sweetener that adds a distinct flavor to apple desserts)
Note: Ensure the ingredients are fresh and of good quality for optimal taste and texture. Use these SEO-friendly terms and keywords to help improve visibility in search results related to apple butter stack cake recipes.
Steps
### Apple Butter Stack Cake Recipe: A Sweet Treat Perfect for Special Occasions
#### Introduction to Apple Butter Stack Cake
Apple butter stack cakes are a delightful fusion of classic apple flavors and rich, moist cake layers. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress at parties or serve up something special during the fall season. The key ingredient here is apple butter, which adds depth and sweetness to the cake, making it extra tender and flavorful.
#### Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
#### Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cake pan (9-inch round)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Knife for slicing the cake
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it's slightly greased.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir well and set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract to enhance the flavors.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients Gradually**
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.
- Add about 1/3 cup of milk and mix until just combined.
- Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and milk, ensuring a smooth batter without overmixing.
5. **Fold in Apple Butter**
- Gently fold in the apple butter until well incorporated into the batter. This step is crucial for achieving that rich flavor profile.
6. **Bake the Cake Layers**
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. **Stack and Frost**
- Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate, then spread a generous amount of whipped cream or frosting over it.
- Top with another layer, repeating until all layers are used.
- Decorate the top of the cake as desired using more frosting, fresh apples, or cinnamon sprinkles.
8. **Serve and Enjoy**
- Slice into portions and serve your apple butter stack cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
#### Tips
- For an extra special touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake before serving.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the apple flavor even more.
#### SEO Keywords
- Apple butter stack cake recipe
- Fall baked goods
- Sweet treats for parties
- Rich and moist cake layers
By following these detailed steps, you'll create an impressive apple butter stack cake that's sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!