Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful combination of moist apple cake and smooth caramel buttercream, topped with a homemade salted caramel sauce. It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth and joy to any gathering—whether it’s a cozy dinner with family or a festive get-together with friends.

What makes this cake truly special is its simplicity. You can whip it up easily after a busy day, and trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their slice. So grab your apron, and let’s bake something magical together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious dessert.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will rave about the sweet flavors of apple and caramel.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight treat, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it for later; it tastes just as good the next day!
• Delightful Flavor Combination: The mix of warm spices, fresh apples, and creamy caramel will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how easy it is to gather these simple, wholesome ingredients for the Caramel Apple Cake! Each component adds its own special touch to this delightful dessert.

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, allowing you to tailor it to your personal taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Switch Up the Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a different spice profile.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute grated apples with pears or even shredded zucchini for moisture.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

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 until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer without stirring until it reaches a deep amber color. This step is crucial because it creates that rich caramel flavor! Once ready, carefully add 25 g butter, followed by 100 g heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool.

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 allspice. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, grated apples (200 g), and room temperature vegetable oil (110 g). Then add in two room temperature eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Lastly, stir in sour cream (140 g) and vanilla extract (1 tsp). This mixture will keep your cake moist and flavorful!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your cake light and fluffy! Once everything is combined beautifully, pour the batter into a greased cake pan.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking is where all those wonderful flavors meld together—enjoy the heavenly smell wafting through your home!

Step 6: Prepare the Buttercream

While your cake cools down on a wire rack, make the caramel buttercream. In a bowl, beat together room temperature butter (100 g) and powdered sugar (165 g). Once it’s fluffy, mix in about 2-3 teaspoons of your cooled caramel sauce along with another teaspoon of vanilla extract. This creamy frosting will be the cherry on top of your masterpiece!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cake has completely cooled down, generously spread the caramel buttercream over the top. Drizzle any remaining salted caramel sauce on top for that extra indulgence. Slice into pieces and serve—watch as everyone devours this delightful treat!

Enjoy every bite of this luscious Caramel Apple Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Making a delicious Caramel Apple Cake is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out absolutely perfect!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature creates a smoother batter and results in a fluffier cake. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense texture.

• Grate Your Apples Finely: The finer you grate your apples, the more they will blend into the cake batter. This helps distribute their moisture and flavor evenly throughout the cake, giving you that delightful apple taste in every bite.

• Monitor Baking Time: Ovens can vary widely in temperature. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested time; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Patience is key! Allow your cake to cool completely before adding the caramel buttercream. This prevents melting and ensures that each layer holds its shape beautifully.

• Make Extra Salted Caramel Sauce: Who doesn’t love a drizzle of caramel? Make a bit more than you need so you can serve it on the side for guests to add as they please—a sweet touch that everyone will appreciate!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake can be as fun and creative as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top of your cake for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apples perfectly.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. Its light sweetness enhances the flavors of both the cake and caramel sauce.
• Fresh Apple Slices: Thinly slice some fresh apples as a garnish around the base of the cake. This not only adds color but also hints at the delicious apple flavor within.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing! The creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Caramelized Pears: These add another layer of fruitiness—simply sauté slices of pear in butter and brown sugar until golden for an irresistible side.
• Cinnamon-Spiced Whipped Cream: Whip up some heavy cream with cinnamon for a light topping that mirrors the flavors in your cake while adding an airy contrast.
• Coffee or Tea: Serve your cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The cozy beverage will enhance those autumnal flavors and create a perfect end to any meal!

Now all that’s left is to gather around with loved ones, enjoy this scrumptious Caramel Apple Cake, and make some delightful memories!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it to enjoy later, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual portions before freezing for easier access later.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired portion from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave on low for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
• Enjoy warm with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Caramel Apple Cake.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness. Each type will give a unique flavor profile to your cake.

How can I make my Caramel Apple Cake even more indulgent?

To enhance your Caramel Apple Cake, consider adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the batter. You could also top it with extra caramel sauce or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

What is the best way to store my Caramel Apple Cake?

Ensure your cake is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or using an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for two days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Can I make this cake without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute non-dairy options like almond milk yogurt instead of sour cream and use vegan butter in place of regular butter to make this recipe dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! It’s truly a special treat that captures the essence of fall with every bite. Whether you’re sharing it during a gathering or savoring a piece with your afternoon coffee, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy. Remember, baking is all about having fun—so don’t hesitate to add your personal touch. Happy baking!