Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, then this Caramel Apple Cake is just what you need! Every bite is like a warm hug filled with the rich flavors of cinnamon and caramel, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or even just a sweet treat after a busy week. I love how it brings everyone together, whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck with friends. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished favorite in your home!

Imagine sinking your fork into a soft and moist apple cake, topped with smooth caramel buttercream and drizzled with homemade salted caramel sauce. It’s truly an indulgent experience that will leave you craving more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This Caramel Apple Cake comes together quickly, making it perfect even on those busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly: With its delightful flavors and comforting textures, everyone—from kids to grandparents—will love it!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this cake in advance for any gathering, freeing up your time to enjoy with loved ones.
• Fall flavors: The combination of apples and spices makes this cake an ideal treat during the autumn months.
• Impressive presentation: The smooth caramel buttercream and glossy sauce create a stunning dessert that will wow your guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful Caramel Apple Cake!

For the Caramel Sauce

• 90 g granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp water
• 25 g butter
• 100 g heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

For the Cake

• 240 g all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground all spice
• 100 g granulated sugar
• 100 g dark brown sugar
• 200 g apples (grated)
• 110 g vegetable oil (room temperature)
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 140 g sour cream (14-18% room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Buttercream

• 100 g butter (room temperature)
• 165 g powdered sugar
• 2-3 tsp caramel (for flavor)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Variations

This Caramel Apple Cake is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to put your own twist on it:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the cake.
• Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Change the fruit: Try using pears or even peaches instead of apples for a different flavor profile!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making the caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g of granulated sugar and 1 tbsp of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it cook without stirring until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and quickly add 25 g of butter and 100 g of heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. This homemade caramel sauce adds richness and depth to our cake!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together 240 g of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground all spice. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, and 110 g vegetable oil until well combined. Add in the eggs one at a time followed by 140 g sour cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly ensures that your cake remains moist.

Step 5: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the grated apples into your wet mixture; they add moisture and natural sweetness to the cake! Then slowly mix in your dry ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into a greased cake pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Make the Buttercream Frosting

While your cake cools, prepare the buttercream by beating together 100 g of room-temperature butter with 165 g powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in caramel sauce (2-3 teaspoons) and another teaspoon of vanilla extract. This frosting is creamy perfection!

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, spread the luscious caramel buttercream on top of your cake generously. Drizzle more homemade salted caramel sauce over it for that extra touch!

And there you have it—the most delightful Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy every slice as you share this sweet creation with those you love.

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking can be a delightful experience, especially when you know a few tricks to make your Caramel Apple Cake even more scrumptious!

• Use fresh apples – Fresh, crisp apples enhance the flavor and texture of the cake, making it moist and delicious. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work beautifully.
• Room temperature ingredients – Ensuring your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and a lighter cake. It promotes even mixing and better rise.
• Don’t over-mix – Gently fold in the dry ingredients to preserve the cake’s fluffy texture. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake that’s not as enjoyable.
• Cool completely before frosting – Letting the cake cool completely prevents the buttercream from melting off. This ensures you get beautiful layers of frosting on each slice!
• Experiment with spices – Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preferences! Adding nutmeg or ginger can give your cake an extra hint of warmth and flavor.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Presenting your Caramel Apple Cake in an inviting way can elevate its appeal. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dessert!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a nice crunch and complements the apple flavor beautifully.
• Whipped cream – A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the caramel.
• Cinnamon dusting – A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the top just before serving gives a cozy touch and enhances the fall flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your slice creates a classic pairing. The cold creaminess contrasts delightfully with the warm cake.
• Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like pears and berries provides a light, healthy balance to the rich caramel cake.
• Hot Tea or Coffee – Serving slices of cake with steaming cups of tea or coffee makes for a comforting experience. The warmth will enhance the flavors of both beverages and dessert.
• Caramel Drizzle on Plate – When plating, drizzle some homemade salted caramel sauce on the plate for an impressive presentation that invites everyone to dig in!

With these tips for making, serving, and enjoying your Caramel Apple Cake, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family with this delightful dessert! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delightful to enjoy fresh but also fantastic for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or an easy treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember that refrigeration may slightly change its texture.
• If you want to preserve the cake’s moisture, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure there’s no excess air in the bag to avoid freezer burn.
• For best results, freeze the cake without frosting. You can frost it after thawing.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cake warm, slice a piece and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a more classic approach, you can warm individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Drizzle with a little extra homemade salted caramel sauce before serving for that freshly baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dessert!

Can I use different types of apples in my Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are popular for their tartness, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or any other variety you love. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture.

How do I make my Caramel Apple Cake more moist?

To enhance moisture, ensure that you’re using room temperature ingredients as specified in the recipe. Additionally, don’t overbake the cake; check for doneness with a toothpick a few minutes before the suggested time.

Is there a way to make this Caramel Apple Cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. This should yield similar results while catering to gluten-sensitive diets.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! It captures all the wonderful flavors of fall and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to try your own variations and share with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like enjoying a slice together. Happy baking!