Autumn Apple Cake

This cake makes a wonderful ending to a meal.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 (12-ounce) package frozen escalloped apples
1 (18.25-ounce) package spice cake mix
1/3 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
Garnish: walnuts

Rustic Apple Filling (recipe follows):
2 (12-ounce) packages frozen escalloped apples
1/4 cup corn starch
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter or margarine

Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe follows):
1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
5 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cooking Directions:

1. Thaw escalloped apples in microwave at MEDIUM (50% power) 5 to 6 minutes.
2. Combine apples, cake mix, and next 3 ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Beat at low speed with an electric mixer until blended; beat at medium speed 2 minutes. Pour into 3 greased and floured 9-inch cakepans.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. For Rustic Apple Filling: Thaw escalloped apples in microwave at MEDIUM (50% power) 5 to 6 minutes.
5. Combine apples and cornstarch in a medium saucepan, stirring well. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, and butter; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens. Cool completely.
6. Spread Rustic Apple Filling evenly between layers.
7. For Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended. Gradually add sugar, and beat until smooth. Add milk and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
8. Spread Cream Cheese Frosting on top and sides of cake. Garnish if desired.

Makes 1 (3-layer) cake.

Recipe is the property of Nestlé® and Meals.com, used with permission.