Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve found it! This Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful blend of soft, moist cake and sweet caramel goodness. It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth to any gathering, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family celebration. The combination of fresh apples and rich caramel is simply irresistible, making this cake a true crowd-pleaser.

I love making this cake not just for its flavor, but also for how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that it fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma and brings everyone together around the dessert table. Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With straightforward steps, baking this cake is a breeze even for beginners!
• Family-friendly flavor: Everyone loves the sweet combination of apple and caramel—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it a day in advance; it tastes even better after resting overnight!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You likely have many of them in your pantry already!

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 get creative with these variation ideas:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch and complement the flavors beautifully.
• Incorporate spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra warm spice kick!
• Change the frosting: Swap out the caramel buttercream for classic vanilla or cream cheese frosting if you prefer.
• Use different fruits: Pears or peaches can be used instead of apples for a delightful twist!

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making the caramel sauce, as it will need time to cool. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g granulated sugar and 1 tbsp water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then let it boil without stirring. When it turns golden brown, remove from heat and add 25 g butter and 100 g heavy cream cautiously. Stir in a pinch of salt until smooth. Allow this lovely sauce to cool while you prepare your cake batter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 240 g 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 ensures that everything is evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, grated apples (200 g), and 110 g vegetable oil at room temperature. Add in your eggs (2), sour cream (140 g), and vanilla extract (1 tsp). Whisk well until everything is combined—this adds moisture and flavor!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold your wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and fluffy! Once just combined, pour in half of your cooled caramel sauce and stir through.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into a prepared cake pan and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center. The smell will be heavenly!

Step 6: Prepare the Buttercream

While your cake cools, make the buttercream by beating together room-temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g), mixing until soft and creamy. Add in caramel sauce (2-3 tsp) and vanilla extract (1 tsp), blending well.

Step 7: Frost Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely on a wire rack, spread that luscious caramel buttercream generously over the top. Drizzle with additional homemade salted caramel if desired—because why not go all out?

And there you have it—a slice of heaven that’s perfect for sharing! Enjoy every bite of this Caramel Apple Cake; it’s bound to become a favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Making a delightful Caramel Apple Cake is all about the little details that lead to a spectacular end result. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfect every time!

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp apples bring unique flavors and moisture to the cake. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced sweetness with a hint of tartness.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps incorporate air into the batter, making your cake extra fluffy and soft.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before applying the caramel buttercream. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful, even layer.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch more cinnamon or even some nutmeg to enhance the autumnal flavor profile of your cake. A little extra spice can elevate your dessert!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce over each slice adds visual flair and an extra burst of sweetness.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream can create a lovely contrast against the rich buttercream.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake perfectly, making it an irresistible pairing.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the cake. Mix seasonal fruits like pears, grapes, and berries for color and flavor.
• Coffee or Tea: Serve slices with a cup of brewed coffee or herbal tea for an inviting afternoon treat that warms the spirit.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet notes in your Caramel Apple Cake, creating a delightful balance.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Caramel Apple Cake will not only taste divine but look stunning too! Enjoy every bite as you share this fall-inspired delight with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, which is great for busy weeks or special occasions. Storing it properly will ensure you can enjoy this delicious dessert even days later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delectable Caramel Apple Cake.

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, you can use any variety you enjoy—such as Honeycrisp or Fuji—just make sure they are firm and not overly soft.

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

To make homemade salted caramel sauce, combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until dissolved, then allow it to simmer without stirring until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully add butter and cream; stir until smooth. Add salt to taste!

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

Yes! You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk if desired. Both alternatives will still give your cake that moist texture.

How long does the Caramel Apple Cake last?

When stored properly, the cake lasts up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week when refrigerated. If frozen, it can last up to 2 months!

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Cake is not just a delightful dessert; it’s an experience filled with warm flavors that embody autumn. I hope you enjoy making this cake as much as I do! Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a cozy night at home, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!