Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Caramel Apple Cake! This delightful cake is not only super soft and moist, but it also brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples, all topped with a luscious caramel buttercream. It’s a fantastic treat for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even just a sweet escape after a long day.

What makes this Caramel Apple Cake truly special is its simple preparation and the joy it brings to those who enjoy it. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it an instant favorite among friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up this cake. With straightforward steps, it’s perfect for any skill level.
• Family-friendly flavor: The combination of caramel and apples is a hit with both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone goes back for seconds!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this cake in advance for busy days or special occasions—just store it properly and enjoy later!
• Perfectly moist: Thanks to the grated apples and creamy ingredients, this cake stays moist for days without drying out.
• Versatile dessert: Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this cake fits any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses easy-to-find items that create incredible flavors without any fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Caramel Sauce

• 90 g granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp water
• 25 g butter
• 100 g heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

For the Cake

• 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! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist that complements the apple.
• Use other fruits: Swap out some of the apples for grated carrots or pears to change things up!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making the caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir until dissolved, then let it cook without stirring until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully add butter, followed by heavy cream—be cautious as it may bubble up. Stir in a pinch of salt and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and all spice. This step helps ensure that all your leavening agents are evenly distributed in your cake batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, grated apples, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will keep your cake moist and flavorful!

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let it cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fluffy. Add in caramel sauce and vanilla extract; mix well until incorporated.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, spread the caramel buttercream generously over the top of your cake. Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce on top if desired for that extra touch!

Enjoy every slice of your homemade Caramel Apple Cake—it’s sure to become a treasured recipe in your collection!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking a caramel apple cake can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it’s a success!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, firm apples will give your cake the best flavor and texture. Opt for sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji to enhance your cake’s natural sweetness.
• Room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, sour cream, and butter to room temperature helps them blend more easily into the batter, leading to a lighter and fluffier cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher texture.
• Let it cool completely: Allow your cake to cool fully before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Adjust caramel consistency: If your homemade salted caramel sauce is too thick, gently reheat it with a splash of cream to reach the desired pourable consistency.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Presenting your caramel apple cake beautifully can make every slice feel extra special. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the softness of the cake.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream gives a light and airy touch that complements the rich caramel flavor beautifully.
• Extra salted caramel drizzle: A drizzle on top not only looks stunning but also adds an extra layer of deliciousness that everyone will love.

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.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake and adds a vibrant touch to your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: Serving your cake with freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea enhances its flavors and creates a cozy atmosphere for enjoying dessert.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the caramel apple cake, making for an interesting combination.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this delightful Caramel Apple Cake! Happy baking!

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, ensuring that you have a sweet treat ready for gatherings or simply to enjoy at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator, where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, place them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• For larger portions, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about your Caramel Apple Cake!

Can I make this Caramel Apple Cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitution for best results.

What should I serve with Caramel Apple Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of nuts on top adds a delightful crunch!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Caramel Apple Cake?

Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. You could also add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and flavor.

Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the homemade salted caramel sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick warm-up before drizzling over your cake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Caramel Apple Cake! Its soft, moist texture combined with rich caramel buttercream makes it a truly special dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring each slice on your own, this cake brings the cozy flavors of fall into every bite. Enjoy baking and don’t forget to share your experience!