Spiced Apple Cake with Cinnamon Glaze

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter and lightly dust with flour, or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. 4

   Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.

5. 5

   Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined - don't overmix.

6. 6

   Gently fold the diced apples into the batter using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, making sure they're evenly distributed throughout.

7. 7

   Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

8. 8

   While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.

9. 9

   Once the cake has cooled for about 15 minutes, drizzle the cinnamon glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.