Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that truly captures the essence of fall, you’re in for a delight with this Caramel Apple Cake! This recipe combines soft, moist apple cake topped with creamy caramel buttercream and drizzled with homemade salted caramel sauce. It’s an absolute showstopper that’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings, or just because you deserve something special.

What makes this cake even more wonderful is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply want to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can master this cake.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the combination of apples and caramel; it’s sure to please kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy dinner at home, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake this delicious cake in advance and store it; it tastes just as good the next day!
• Delightfully flavorful: The warm spices and sweet caramel create a comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this Caramel Apple Cake—just simple, wholesome items that you probably have on hand! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake

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

Variations

This Caramel Apple Cake is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Use different fruits: Swap out some of the apples for pears or shredded carrots for a different flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by grating 200 grams of apples. This not only adds moisture but also gives that lovely fruity flavor throughout the cake. Set them aside while you mix the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 240 grams of all-purpose flour, 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon ground all spice. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures an even rise and flavor in your cake.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine both types of sugar—100 grams of granulated sugar and 100 grams of dark brown sugar—with 110 grams of vegetable oil. Add in the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients until they are light and fluffy; this will help create a tender crumb in your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your cake light and fluffy! Then add in those grated apples and stir until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into a greased cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it near the end—when a toothpick comes out clean from the center, it’s ready!

Step 6: Make the Caramel Buttercream

While your cake is cooling, let’s whip up that luscious caramel buttercream! Beat together 100 grams of room temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add in 165 grams of powdered sugar followed by caramel sauce and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread that delightful caramel buttercream on top. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the frosting if you’re feeling extra indulgent!

Enjoy each bite of this comforting Caramel Apple Cake—it truly is like taking a delicious slice out of autumn itself!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Creating the perfect Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll be sure to impress your friends and family!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples not only add great flavor but also provide the right moisture content for the cake. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work wonderfully.

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined is key to keeping your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we definitely want to avoid.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested bake time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

• Let it cool completely: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting it with caramel buttercream. This prevents the frosting from melting and helps maintain that beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

When it comes to serving this delectable Caramel Apple Cake, presentation matters! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cake for added crunch and flavor.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the cake beautifully.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over the top before serving for an indulgent finish that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm slices of caramel apple cake, creating a comforting contrast.
• Spiced chai tea: Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy beverage that enhances the fall flavors of your cake.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright counterpoint to the rich cake, balancing out each bite nicely.
• Pumpkin soup: For an autumn-inspired meal, pair this cake with a warm bowl of pumpkin soup as a delightful starter. The spices in both dishes will harmonize beautifully.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to whip up this delicious Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy every sweet bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it for days, making it a fantastic dessert option for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake before freezing for easier portioning.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Let frozen slices thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For quick reheating, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• If desired, warm slices in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful dessert:

Can I use different types of apples for the Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

How do I make the caramel sauce for my Caramel Apple Cake?

To make homemade salted caramel sauce, melt sugar with water until golden brown, add butter and cream, and finish with a pinch of salt. It’s that simple!

Can I substitute sour cream in the Caramel Apple Cake recipe?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream. Both will keep your cake moist and add a slight tang.

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

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you get as much joy from making this Caramel Apple Cake as I do! It’s the perfect blend of soft apple goodness and rich caramel flavor—truly a taste of fall. I invite you to try this recipe at your next gathering or just because! Enjoy every bite and share your experience; I’d love to hear how it turns out!