Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that truly captures the essence of fall, you have to try this Caramel Apple Cake. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a cozy hug in dessert form! With its super soft and moist apple base, topped with smooth caramel buttercream and drizzled with homemade salted caramel sauce, it’s bound to be a favorite among family and friends. It’s perfect for gatherings or even just a sweet ending to a busy weeknight dinner.

What really makes this Caramel Apple Cake special is how incredibly easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to indulge yourself on a quiet afternoon, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll be enjoying your cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves caramel and apples! It’s a dessert that kids and adults alike will adore.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this cake shines at any event.
• Make Ahead Option: Bake it in advance and store it; the flavors only get better as it sits!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of warm spices and sweet apples creates a delightful taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Caramel Apple Cake. You probably have many of these in your pantry already!

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! Here are some fun ideas to tweak the recipe:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Incorporate Dried Fruit: Add raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Try Different Spices: Swap out the cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a unique twist.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce

Start by making your salted caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer without stirring until it turns an amber color. Then carefully add 25 g of butter, followed by 100 g of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. This step is key because homemade caramel adds that delightful richness that store-bought can’t match!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together 240 g of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground all spice. Mix well! These dry ingredients will create the perfect base for your cake.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine 100 g granulated sugar with 100 g dark brown sugar. Add in your grated apples, then mix in 110 g vegetable oil, 2 eggs, and 140 g sour cream along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is nicely blended. This mixture brings moisture and flavor right into your cake batter!

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined—be careful not to over-mix! Pour the batter into your prepared cake pans. This gentle folding helps keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting!

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

While the cake cools, prepare your caramel buttercream by beating together room temperature butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add in about 2-3 teaspoons of caramel sauce along with another teaspoon of vanilla extract. This frosting is creamy perfection!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on your serving plate and spread on some caramel buttercream before adding the second layer on top. Finish with more frosting on top and drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce.

And there you have it—a stunning Caramel Apple Cake that tastes as good as it looks! Enjoy every slice and share it with someone special!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Making a perfect Caramel Apple Cake is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out deliciously every time.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples will enhance the flavor and texture of your cake. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking, resulting in a soft and fluffy cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!
• Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
• Let it cool completely: Allow your cake to cool fully before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and ensures beautiful layers that hold together nicely.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes! With its warm autumn colors and luscious toppings, it’s perfect for any gathering or celebration. Here’s how you can elevate its presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the buttercream to add an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Apple slices: Thinly slice fresh apples and arrange them elegantly on top of the cake for a fresh touch that complements the apple flavor.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top adds both visual appeal and an aromatic hint of spice.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm flavors of caramel and apple. The cold ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm cake.
• Caramel sauce drizzle: Serve extra homemade salted caramel sauce on the side for drizzling over each slice. It adds an indulgent touch that everyone will love.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the rich flavors of the cake, providing refreshing bites between sweet morsels.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream is a delightful addition that complements the caramel without overpowering it.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Caramel Apple Cake will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dessert table! Enjoy baking this delightful treat, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delightful but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, making it a great treat for gatherings or family dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into portions before freezing for easy servings.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
• For a warm treat, microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can enjoy it at room temperature!

FAQs

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

Can I use other fruits in my Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! While apples bring a wonderful flavor and texture, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or even berries. Just adjust the baking time as needed.

What makes this Caramel Apple Cake so moist?

The combination of grated apples and sour cream keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender. Plus, the caramel buttercream adds an extra layer of richness!

How do I prevent my Caramel Apple Cake from sticking to the pan?

To avoid sticking, be sure to grease your cake pan well with butter or oil and lightly dust it with flour. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for added assurance.

Can I make this Caramel Apple Cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake this scrumptious Caramel Apple Cake! It’s truly a celebration of fall flavors, bringing warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Enjoy making it for loved ones or simply as a treat for yourself—you deserve it! Happy baking!