Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, then this Caramel Apple Cake is for you! This delightful cake combines the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples, all topped off with a creamy caramel buttercream. It’s incredibly soft and moist, making it a go-to recipe for any gathering or cozy family dinner. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself after a long day, this cake will bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that whipping up this Caramel Apple Cake is an enjoyable experience. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this cake comes together quickly!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the sweet apple flavor combined with buttery caramel.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight treat, it’s always a hit.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store for later; it stays delicious!
• Comforting Flavor: The warm spices and rich caramel evoke the coziness of autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, making this recipe approachable for everyone.

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! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Use Different Fruits: Try adding grated pears or even finely chopped peaches for a twist.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger to change the flavor profile.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making your homemade salted caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g granulated sugar and 1 tbsp water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Allow it to simmer without stirring until it turns a golden amber color. Remove from heat and carefully add 25 g butter and 100 g heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add a pinch of salt, then set aside to cool before using.

Step 2: Mix 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 an even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually fold your wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. While it’s baking, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma!

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

For the buttercream, beat together room-temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g) until light and fluffy. Add in your cooled caramel sauce (2-3 tsp) and another teaspoon of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread the caramel buttercream on top generously! Drizzle more homemade caramel sauce over the frosting for that extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it! A beautiful Caramel Apple Cake that will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Creating the perfect Caramel Apple Cake is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out deliciously moist and bursting with flavor.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples add the best flavor and moisture to your cake. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for that perfect balance of sweet and tart.

• Room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, sour cream, and butter to room temperature before mixing helps them incorporate better into the batter, leading to a fluffier texture.

• Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is blended. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, so gently folding will keep it light and airy.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Ovens can vary in temperature. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done!

• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cake to cool completely ensures that the caramel buttercream doesn’t melt off when you spread it on. A well-cooled cake also holds its shape better when sliced.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this dessert that will impress your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Apple slices: Decoratively arrange thin slices of fresh apple on top for an elegant touch.
• Cinnamon dust: Lightly dust the top of the cake with ground cinnamon or powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm slices of cake, balancing flavors perfectly.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with light whipped coconut cream that adds a luscious texture without overpowering the cake.
• Spiced chai tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea complements the cinnamon in the cake and enhances its cozy fall vibes.
• Fresh fruit salad: A bright medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness to your dessert table while balancing out the richness of the cake.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable experience around your Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful dessert ready for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Once the cake has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Place the cake in a cool, dry place at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it will stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the container with the date and contents to keep track of your frozen treats.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for indulging later!

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen slice, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice on low power for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Have some questions about making this delightful dessert? You’re in the right place!

Can I use other types of apples in my Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tart flavor, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Each will bring its unique taste and sweetness to your cake!

How do I make my Caramel Apple Cake even more flavorful?

To enhance the flavors of your Caramel Apple Cake, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. You could also sprinkle some extra cinnamon or even nutmeg into the batter for added warmth.

How should I serve my Caramel Apple Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Drizzling additional salted caramel sauce over each slice makes it extra special!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in baking this Caramel Apple Cake as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during cozy gatherings or simply enjoying as a sweet treat at home. Whether it’s fall or any time of year, this cake encapsulates warmth and happiness. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!