Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, this Caramel Apple Cake is it! The combination of tender apples and rich caramel buttercream makes this cake a standout at any gathering. It’s soft, moist, and oh-so-delicious, making it not just a treat for special occasions but also a wonderful way to brighten up busy weeknights. Trust me, once you bake this cake, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply want to enjoy something sweet with your afternoon coffee, this Caramel Apple Cake is sure to impress. It’s easy to whip up and delightful to share, making it an ideal recipe for both seasoned bakers and novices alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves apple desserts, and this cake is no exception!
• Easy preparation: With simple steps, you can have this cake ready in no time.
• Perfect for gatherings: Its gorgeous look and amazing flavor make it a hit at parties.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it a day in advance for stress-free entertaining.
• Deliciously comforting: The warm spices and rich caramel bring cozy vibes to any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients! This Caramel Apple Cake uses simple items that you probably already have in your pantry. 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to customize your Caramel Apple Cake:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change the fruit: Swap out apples for pears or even shredded carrots for a different twist.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe option.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by making your delicious salted caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and cook until it turns a lovely golden color. Add butter and mix well before slowly pouring in heavy cream while stirring continuously. This step is crucial; it creates that smooth texture we all love!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and all spice. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your cake batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, grated apples, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your cake.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while folding gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to be light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Baking time can vary based on your oven so keep an eye on it!

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

While your cake cools down slightly, prepare the caramel buttercream by creaming together room temperature butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add caramel sauce and vanilla extract for that rich taste.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread the caramel buttercream generously on top. Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over it for that extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it! A stunning Caramel Apple Cake that’s sure to delight anyone lucky enough to get a slice. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these handy tips, your Caramel Apple Cake will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples not only add moisture but also provide a wonderful flavor that enhances the cake. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter that traps air better, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid for this tender cake.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done by inserting it into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting is crucial. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures that you have a beautifully layered dessert.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Presenting your Caramel Apple Cake beautifully is just as important as making it delicious! Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich flavors of the cake.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting for an added crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with caramel and apple.
• Cinnamon Dust: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top not only makes for an appealing presentation but also enhances the warm spice notes of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm cake, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Serving with extra homemade salted caramel sauce allows guests to customize their slices with additional sweetness.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cake.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing this dessert with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea creates a warm atmosphere and enhances the overall experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep! Not only can it be made in advance, but it also stores beautifully, allowing you to enjoy a slice of autumn any day of the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Caramel Apple Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly as outlined above!

What can I use instead of sour cream in Caramel Apple Cake?

You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. Both options will keep your cake moist and delicious!

How long does Caramel Apple Cake last?

If stored correctly, this cake can last up to a week in the refrigerator. It’s also great for freezing if you want to enjoy it later!

Can I add nuts to my Caramel Apple Cake?

Certainly! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

What is the best way to serve Caramel Apple Cake?

For the ultimate experience, serve each slice with an extra drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce and perhaps a scoop of ice cream on the side!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! It’s truly special with its soft texture and comforting flavors that remind us of fall gatherings. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration or just because you’re craving something sweet, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and may your kitchen fill with warmth and joy!