Autumn Apple Cake ~~~ Gluten-free Like Sandra Lee

It wasn't that long ago that anything gluten-free had to be baked from scratch.  Not anymore, these times they are a changing! GF can now do the "Semi-Homemade" dance just like Food Network star Sandra Lee!  Today there are so many companies with gluten-free products and mixes that the ease of getting great tasting treats out of our own kitchen has become a snap.  One such product that is new to my pantry is Namaste Spice Cake Mix.  It is delicious when prepared according to the package instructions but tweak it just a little and OMG - a flavor filled explosion takes place inside your mouth! In celebration of Fall here is my favorite upgrade (thus far) for this mix -

Autumn Apple Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Icing

CAKE:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

For best results start with all the ingredients at room temperature.

1 Package (26 oz)      Namaste Spice Cake Mix

3                              Eggs - lightly beaten

1/4 C                        Water

1/4 C                        Oil

1 C                           Applesauce

2 C                           Apples - peeled and chopped

1/4 C                        Pecans (optional)

             * Place mix in large bowl and make a well in the center

             * In a smaller bowl blend together eggs, water and oil

             * Combine the egg mixture and applesauce with the dry mix

             * Gently fold the apples (and pecans) into the batter

             * Ladle or pour into lightly greased pans or cupcake liners

             * Bake according to package instruction based on pan size

             * Cool completely before icing

ICING:

2 Pkg (3 oz)              Philadelphia Cream Cheese - softened

2 C                           Powdered Sugar

1/4 t                         Maple Flavoring

1/4 t                         Maple Syrup
1/2 C                        Pecan Pieces

               * Beat cream cheese until very smooth and soft

               * Slowly add the powdered sugar a little at a time

               * Blend in maple flavoring and syrup
               * Spread over the cake and sprinkle with pecans

These are great made into mini loafs - I especially like the fact that I can eat just one or even a half of one and stop whereas with a cupcake or a slice of cake...  I know, I know - it's a psychological thing but hey!

                                

                            

                                               

                                         
I have found this product at Drug Emporium, Whole Foods and occasionally at my local grocery.  If it is not available in you area and you want to give a whirl, it can be ordered through Amazon Foods.  I have provided the link to help you get started!