Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve come to the right place! This Caramel Apple Cake is not just any cake; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its super soft and moist apple base topped with smooth caramel buttercream and drizzled with homemade salted caramel sauce, this cake is the perfect way to celebrate those crisp autumn days. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a weeknight treat, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe even better? It’s easy to make! You don’t need to be a baking pro to whip up this delightful dessert. Just gather your ingredients, follow along, and soon you’ll have a beautiful cake ready to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: This cake comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy bakers.
• Family-friendly appeal: With its comforting flavors of apple and caramel, everyone will want a slice!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and store it for a sweet surprise whenever you need it.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and rich caramel is simply irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s talk about the ingredients! These are simple, wholesome staples that you likely already have in your kitchen. Gather these goodies to get started on your Caramel Apple Cake:

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! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.
• Fruity alternatives: Swap out apples for grated carrots or pears if you’re feeling adventurous!

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 of granulated sugar and 1 tbsp of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it simmer without stirring until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in 25 g of butter and 100 g of heavy cream along with a pinch of salt. This step creates that luscious caramel flavor that will take your cake over the top!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 240 g of 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 ensures that everything is evenly distributed throughout the cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, and grated apples with room temperature vegetable oil (110 g). Add in room temperature eggs (2), sour cream (140 g), and vanilla extract (1 tsp). Be sure to combine these thoroughly; it creates that moist texture we love in cakes!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake—nobody wants that! Pour this batter into your prepared cake pan.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be pure bliss!

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

While your cake cools down, prepare the buttercream by beating together room temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g), caramel sauce (2-3 tsp), and another teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, spread that luscious caramel buttercream on top of your apple cake. Drizzle more homemade salted caramel sauce if you’re feeling indulgent!

And there you have it—a stunning Caramel Apple Cake perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Creating the perfect Caramel Apple Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out heavenly!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, sour cream, and butter to room temperature helps them blend more easily, creating a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.

• Don’t skimp on the apples: Grating fresh apples adds moisture and flavor. Make sure to use tart varieties like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness in each bite.

• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can be tricky; using an oven thermometer ensures that your cake bakes evenly and prevents it from drying out or burning.

• Allow the cake to cool completely: Patience pays off! Letting your cake cool fully before frosting helps prevent the buttercream from melting and sliding off.

• Drizzle with homemade salted caramel: A generous drizzle of salted caramel not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finish, making your dessert look as good as it tastes!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake can be just as delightful as baking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of light whipped coconut cream adds an airy touch, enhancing the cake’s richness without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm cake, creating a delicious contrast in temperatures.
• Caramelized pears: Sautéed pears with a hint of cinnamon bring additional fruity warmth that enhances the apple flavors in the cake.
• Spiced chai tea: Serving slices of cake with a warm cup of spiced chai tea makes for a cozy pairing, perfect for fall gatherings.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Caramel Apple Cake will be an absolute hit at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or just want a sweet treat at home, this cake keeps well and is easy to store.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.
• Keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best flavor, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Freezing

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label and date each package before placing it in the freezer.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or leave at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice of cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while making this delightful dessert!

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

Absolutely! You can use any variety of apple you enjoy. Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work wonderfully, while tart options like Granny Smith add a nice balance.

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

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture. You could also top it with whipped cream or scoop of vanilla plant-based ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Can I make this Caramel Apple Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free!

How do I ensure my Caramel Apple Cake stays moist?

Using room temperature ingredients such as oil and sour cream helps keep the cake moist. Additionally, avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! Its soft, moist texture combined with the rich caramel buttercream brings a cozy taste of fall into any season. Perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!