Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, then this Caramel Apple Cake is just what you need! Every bite of this cake is like a warm hug, with its soft and moist apple layers perfectly complemented by a luscious caramel buttercream frosting. It’s my go-to recipe for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even just to brighten up a busy weeknight. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your kitchen will bring everyone running to the table!

This cake is not only delicious but also super easy to make. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced pro, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Caramel Apple Cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy days when you still want something special.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combination of apples and caramel! This cake will win over both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Birthdays, holidays, or just because—this cake fits right in at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it the day before your event! It stays moist and flavorful overnight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Caramel Apple Cake. You probably have many of these on hand 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 Frosting

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste.

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you love warm spices, try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.
• Mix in chocolate: Fold in some chocolate chips for a decadent twist!
• Use different fruits: Swap out half the apples for grated carrots or pears if you want to mix things up.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making the caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, combine 90 g of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and turns into a golden caramel. Add 25 g of butter and stir until melted. Carefully pour in 100 g of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 240 g of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground all spice. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure that everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together both types of sugar (100 g granulated and 100 g dark brown), followed by the grated apples (200 g), vegetable oil (110 g), eggs (2), sour cream (140 g), and vanilla extract (1 teaspoon). Stir well until combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to our cake!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and fluffy! Once everything is just combined, pour the batter into a greased cake pan.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking brings out those wonderful flavors we love!

Step 6: Prepare Frosting

While your cake cools down, make the frosting by beating together room temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g) until fluffy. Add in cooled caramel sauce (2-3 teaspoons) and more vanilla extract (1 teaspoon). This will create a creamy topping that complements our apple layers beautifully!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread that luscious caramel buttercream on top. Drizzle with any remaining salted caramel sauce if you like—because who can resist more caramel?

And there you have it—a stunning Caramel Apple Cake that’s sure to impress at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious slice!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few helpful tips, you can make your Caramel Apple Cake even more scrumptious!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples not only add moisture to the cake but also enhance the flavor. Opt for sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your ingredients like eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature allows for better mixing. This results in a smoother batter and a more tender cake.
• Don’t overmix: Mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake. You want that light, fluffy texture that makes every bite melt in your mouth!
• Chill the caramel sauce: Allowing your homemade salted caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling it over the cake will give it a thicker consistency. This way, it stays beautifully on top instead of running off.
• Store properly: To keep your Caramel Apple Cake fresh and moist for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy it for days without losing that delicious quality!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Presenting your Caramel Apple Cake can be just as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make your dessert stand out at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds a lovely crunch and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option that’s light and airy, top each slice with whipped coconut cream to enhance the cake’s richness.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced fresh apples arranged artfully on top not only look beautiful but also echo the apple flavor throughout.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of non-dairy vanilla ice cream adds a creamy element that pairs perfectly with the spiced cake.
• Warm spiced cider: A cup of warm spiced apple cider brings out the fall flavors of the cake while providing cozy vibes.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the rich flavors of the cake, making for a delightful contrast.
• Caramel popcorn: For something fun and crunchy, serve caramel popcorn on the side. The sweet, buttery taste complements each slice wonderfully!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re set to impress friends and family with your delicious Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors over several days. Here’s how to keep it fresh!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, first slice the cake into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, allow the cake slices to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I make this Caramel Apple Cake without eggs?

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

How do I store leftover Caramel Apple Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Ensure it’s wrapped properly to maintain freshness.

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

Absolutely! Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully. Choose your favorite based on your taste preference for sweetness and tartness.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option while maintaining that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! Its moist texture, warm spices, and luscious caramel frosting make it a delightful treat that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or savoring it all by yourself, each bite will surely bring warmth and joy. Happy baking!