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! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I bake it, I’m reminded of cozy gatherings with friends and family. The combination of soft, moist apple cake topped with rich caramel buttercream makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply want to treat yourself after a long week, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this Caramel Apple Cake even more special is its delightful aroma as it bakes. It fills your home with the warm scents of cinnamon and apples, inviting everyone to gather around and indulge in a slice (or two!). Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s one of my all-time favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this cake can be whipped up in no time.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy night at home, this cake fits right in.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet combination of apples and caramel.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy the flavors as they deepen overnight!
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the grated apples and sour cream, each bite is packed with moisture and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! Most of these are pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Caramel Apple Cake:

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out some of the apples for grated carrots or pears for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick!
• Go Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based cream for the buttercream.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Make the Caramel Sauce

Start by preparing your homemade caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g granulated sugar with 1 tbsp water. Stir gently until everything melts together into a beautiful amber color. This step is essential because making your own caramel adds richness that store-bought can’t match!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

While your caramel cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan so that your delicious creation releases easily after baking. This way, you won’t have any sad cake remnants left behind!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a 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 well ensures that each slice will be perfectly spiced.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large mixing bowl, blend together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, grated apples (200 g), 110 g vegetable oil, room temperature eggs (2), sour cream (140 g), and vanilla extract (1 tsp). This mixture creates the base for our moist cake!

Step 5: Combine Dry & Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until everything is combined; be careful not to over-mix! This step helps maintain that lovely soft texture we all crave in a cake.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Prepare Buttercream Frosting

While your cake cools, beat together room temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g), caramel (2-3 tsp), and vanilla extract (1 tsp). Whip until fluffy—this frosting will take your cake over the top!

Step 8: Assemble & Serve

Once cooled completely, spread your luscious caramel buttercream on top of the cake. Drizzle some extra caramel sauce if you’re feeling indulgent! Slice into pieces and serve at room temperature to enjoy every bit of its deliciousness.

And there you have it—your very own homemade Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy sharing this lovely dessert with loved ones or savoring it all by yourself. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking this Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful experience, and I want to share some pro tips to ensure you achieve the best results!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples bring out the best flavor and moisture, making your cake taste vibrant and delicious. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create an even batter that traps air better, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the soft texture we desire.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely before applying the caramel buttercream. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures your layers stay intact.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding nutmeg or ginger can give your cake an extra layer of warmth and flavor that complements the apples beautifully.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake can be just as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make it look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake.

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a lovely touch of lightness and pairs beautifully with the rich caramel flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the warm cake, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

• Caramel sauce: Serve alongside extra homemade salted caramel sauce for drizzling on individual slices. It elevates each bite with even more rich flavor!

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the cake. Use seasonal fruits like pears or berries for a delightful accompaniment.

• Herbal tea: Offer a cup of soothing herbal tea alongside your cake. The warmth and subtle flavors create a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying dessert with friends or family.

Now you’re all set to impress your guests with this delicious Caramel Apple Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. It stays fresh and delicious, making it a great choice for gatherings or family treats.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into pieces before freezing for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to three months. For best results, label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat slices in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Caramel Apple Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg.

How do I store Caramel Apple Cake?

Store leftover slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I use other fruits in my Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! Try using grated pears or even shredded zucchini for a different twist while keeping that moist texture intact.

What is the best way to serve Caramel Apple Cake?

Serve it plain, or top it with whipped coconut cream or additional salted caramel sauce for an indulgent treat!

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of cozy fall flavors that brings warmth to any gathering. The combination of tender apples and rich caramel buttercream makes every bite irresistible. I truly hope you enjoy making this cake as much as I do! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is sure to brighten your day. Happy baking!