Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall, then this Caramel Apple Cake is just what you need! Imagine biting into a soft and moist cake, filled with the deliciousness of grated apples and topped with a silky caramel buttercream. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration in every slice. It’s perfect for cozy family gatherings, busy weeknights, or even as an indulgent way to treat yourself after a long day.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful cake in no time. Plus, the rich flavors of caramel and apple make it an instant favorite among friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking whiz to create this delicious cake. The steps are simple, making it accessible for everyone.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults will both love the sweet flavors of caramel and apple. It’s a dessert that brings everyone together!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a casual dinner at home, this cake is sure to impress.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake it ahead of time and store it, making your life easier when entertaining guests.
• Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of warm spices and rich caramel is simply heavenly!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our ingredients! This Caramel Apple Cake uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this Caramel Apple Cake is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Use Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or shredded carrots for a tasty variation.
• Frosting Alternatives: Try topping it with cream cheese frosting instead of caramel buttercream for something different.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making your homemade caramel sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Allow it to simmer without stirring until it turns a lovely amber color. Carefully add 25 g butter and 100 g heavy cream while stirring continuously until smooth. Add a pinch of salt, mix well, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 240 g all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground all spice. This mixture creates the perfect base for your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In yet another bowl (yes, we’re using a few bowls!), mix together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, grated apples (200 g), 110 g vegetable oil, two eggs (room temperature), 140 g sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This step ensures each bite is moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add 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 the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour your batter into a greased cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

While your cake cools down, beat together 100 g butter with 165 g powdered sugar until creamy. Add in your cooled caramel sauce (2–3 teaspoons) along with another teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fluffy.

Step 7: Frost Your Cake

Once your cake is cooled completely, spread the luscious caramel buttercream evenly across the top. Drizzle with additional salted caramel if desired for that extra touch!

And there you have it—a beautiful Caramel Apple Cake that’s sure to be loved by all! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking can be a delightful journey, and these tips will help you make the best Caramel Apple Cake ever!

• Use fresh apples: Freshly grated apples not only enhance flavor but also add moisture to your cake, ensuring it stays soft and delicious.

• Room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, sour cream, and butter to room temperature helps them blend more easily, creating a smoother batter that results in a lighter cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming tough. A gentle fold is all you need to incorporate the ingredients without losing that lovely softness.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet batter), your cake is ready! This ensures you don’t overbake it.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cake to cool fully gives the flavors time to settle and prevents the frosting from melting off. Patience pays off with this step!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped walnuts or pecans on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the fall flavors.

• Whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate each slice, adding a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the caramel.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices and sweet caramel sauce beautifully, making every bite feel indulgent.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich cake, balancing out flavors nicely.

• Coffee or chai tea: Serving this cake alongside a cup of coffee or spiced chai tea enhances its cozy vibe, perfect for gatherings or a comforting afternoon treat.

Now you’re all set to bake, serve, and enjoy this scrumptious Caramel Apple Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready to impress at any gathering.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the frozen slice and place it on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Caramel Apple Cake recipe.

Can I make Caramel Apple Cake without sour cream?

Yes! You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and flavor.

How long will my Caramel Apple Cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days.

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different varieties of apples. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji all work wonderfully in this cake.

Is it possible to make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the homemade salted caramel sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just reheat gently before using.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Caramel Apple Cake! Its soft texture, warm spices, and sweet caramel topping truly capture the essence of fall. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, this cake is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!