Apple Brandy Spice Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Set oven to 350 degrees.
2. 2
   Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
3. 3
   In a large bowl, mix together brown sugar, cream cheese, oil and vanilla; beat with an electric mixer at medium speed until well blended (about 3 minutes).
4. 4
   Add in the eggs, beat well.
5. 5
   Sift the flour with all dry ingredients (up to and including nutmeg) stir with a whisk to combine well.
6. 6
   Add the flour mixture and the buttermilk alternately to the sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture; beat well after each addition.
7. 7
   Stir in the apples and brandy (if using).
8. 8
   Spoon the mixture into a prepared baking dish.
9. 9
   Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cake tests done.
10. 10
    Cool completely on a wire rack.
11. 11
    Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired before serving.