Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in the cozy embrace of fall, look no further than this delightful Caramel Apple Cake. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites and has become a go-to treat for family gatherings and casual get-togethers. The combination of soft, moist apple cake paired with smooth caramel buttercream and homemade salted caramel sauce is simply irresistible! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a sweet ending to a lovely dinner, and I just know your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

This cake not only tastes amazing, but it also fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon and baking apples. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just an ordinary day, this Caramel Apple Cake is sure to brighten up any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy days when you want something homemade without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its delicious flavor and tender texture, this cake is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake the cake ahead of time and frost it right before serving, making it stress-free for any gathering.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and caramel creates an unforgettable taste that screams comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome—everything you need to create this delicious Caramel Apple Cake! 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 Frosting

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch to your cake.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, fold in some chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise.
• Spice It Up: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or even berries for a different fruity flavor.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Make the Caramel Sauce

Start by preparing your caramel sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 grams of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Allow it to cook undisturbed until it turns a golden amber color. Carefully add 25 grams of butter, followed by 100 grams of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round 9-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper. This step ensures your cakes come out easily after baking!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together 240 grams of all-purpose flour, 1¼ teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground all spice. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps evenly distribute the leavening agents.

Step 4: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine both types of sugar (100 grams granulated sugar and 100 grams dark brown sugar), grated apples (200 grams), vegetable oil (110 grams), eggs (2), sour cream (140 grams), and vanilla extract (1 teaspoon). Beat until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; don’t overmix—it’s okay if there are small lumps! This helps keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Buttercream Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together room-temperature butter (100 grams) with powdered sugar (165 grams) until fluffy. Add in caramel sauce (2-3 teaspoons) and vanilla extract (1 teaspoon), mixing well until smooth.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half the frosting on top before placing the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides with remaining frosting.

Step 9: Drizzle with Extra Caramel

For that final touch, drizzle more homemade salted caramel over your beautifully frosted cake!

And there you have it—a stunning Caramel Apple Cake that will surely impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Making the perfect Caramel Apple Cake is all about getting those delightful flavors and textures just right. Here are some tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, firm apples not only add a wonderful flavor but also keep the cake moist. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work beautifully due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that rises evenly for a fluffy cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture we want.
• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is done! This prevents overbaking and keeps it moist.
• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing the cake layers to cool fully prevents the caramel buttercream from melting off. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect finish!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

When it comes to serving this delightful Caramel Apple Cake, presentation can really enhance your dessert experience. Here are some ideas to make your cake look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans on top for an added crunch that complements the soft cake.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream adds an airy texture and balances out the richness of the caramel frosting.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced apples arranged artfully on top give a fresh touch and hint at the delicious flavor within.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm slices of Caramel Apple Cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Serve alongside a small bowl of cinnamon sugar for guests to sprinkle on their slice, enhancing the fall flavors.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cake. Choose seasonal fruits like pears and berries for a beautiful color palette.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea brings warmth and makes for a cozy pairing with this sweet treat.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with not just the taste but also the presentation of your delicious Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only a delightful indulgence but also perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a gathering or want to enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week, this cake stores beautifully and can be made ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake; it will last about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place the slices in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and warm it for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds for a quick reheat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Caramel Apple Cake!

Can I make Caramel Apple Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be made ahead and stored properly. Follow the storing instructions above to keep it fresh.

What makes this Caramel Apple Cake so moist?

The combination of grated apples, sour cream, and vegetable oil contributes to its moist texture. These ingredients work together to ensure every bite is soft and delicious!

Can I use different fruits in place of apples?

Absolutely! While this recipe is centered around apples, feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or even berries for a unique twist.

How do I store leftover Caramel Apple Cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for about a week. See more details above!

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Cake is truly a celebration of fall flavors that will warm your heart and home. It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations; I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy baking!