Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this delightful Caramel Apple Cake! This cake is a true favorite in my kitchen. It’s soft, moist, and brimming with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sweet apples. Topped with a creamy caramel buttercream and drizzled with homemade salted caramel sauce, it’s the perfect treat for any gathering or even just a cozy night in. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long week, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

The best part? It’s super easy to make! You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up this delicious Caramel Apple Cake. Plus, it’s family-friendly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive celebrations. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become one of my go-to favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this cake in the oven in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love the combination of apples and caramel—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance and store it! The flavors get even better as it sits.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices with fresh apples creates an unforgettable taste that truly embodies fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this scrumptious Caramel Apple Cake! Most of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe even more accessible.

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! You can easily tweak the recipe based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different twist.
• Fruit Swap: Substitute grated apples with pears or even shredded carrots for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends!

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 an amber color. Carefully add 25 g butter, 100 g heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the 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 helps ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, grated apples (200 g), and 110 g vegetable oil until well combined. Then add in the two room-temperature eggs one at a time. Stir in 140 g sour cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract. This mixture will help create that moist texture we all love!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to be fluffy! Once combined, pour the batter into your prepared baking pan.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat together 100 g butter and gradually add in 165 g powdered sugar until fluffy. Mix in caramel sauce and another teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 7: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled, spread that luscious caramel buttercream over your cake generously. Drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce if desired for that extra touch of sweetness!

And there you have it—your very own Caramel Apple Cake ready to impress family and friends! Enjoy every slice of this delicious creation!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Making the perfect Caramel Apple Cake can be a delightful experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, in-season apples not only enhance the flavor but also add moisture to the cake, making it irresistibly soft and delicious.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature. This helps them combine more easily and creates a smoother batter, resulting in a fluffier cake.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out!
• Cool completely before frosting: Let the cake cool entirely on a wire rack before adding your caramel buttercream. This prevents melting and ensures that your frosting stays fluffy and beautiful.
• Make extra caramel sauce: If you have leftovers, drizzle some over individual slices when serving for an added touch of indulgence!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake can elevate the entire dessert experience! Here are some fun and creative ideas to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds lightness and a creamy contrast to the rich buttercream.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top can enhance the fall flavors while making your cake look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing with any apple dessert, vanilla ice cream has a creamy texture that balances the rich caramel flavors beautifully.
• Caramel popcorn: For a fun twist, serve some crunchy caramel popcorn alongside your cake. It adds texture and is perfect for snacking!
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the cake and keeps things balanced on your plate.
• Coffee or tea: Offer a cup of warm coffee or tea as a comforting beverage choice that complements the cozy flavors of your cake perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Caramel Apple Cake is sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy sharing this sweet taste of fall at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep and gatherings, making it easy to enjoy a delicious dessert whenever you crave it. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or simply want a sweet treat on hand, this cake can be stored and even frozen for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, place slices in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Caramel Apple Cake.

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

Yes! You can experiment with various apple types such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Each will add a unique flavor and texture to your cake.

How can I make my Caramel Apple Cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this Caramel Apple Cake, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salted caramel sauce a few days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before using it on your cake.

What should I serve with Caramel Apple Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream (dairy-free options available), or even a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top for added indulgence!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this amazing Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! It captures all the cozy flavors of fall and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Remember, baking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bring some warmth into your kitchen—happy baking!