Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Caramel Apple Cake is one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. The combination of soft, moist apple cake topped with rich caramel buttercream and homemade salted caramel sauce makes this treat irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy weeknight at home, this cake is sure to impress.

What I love most about this Caramel Apple Cake is how easy it is to whip up. You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques; just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing—there’s always room for one more slice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have this cake in the oven in no time!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves the sweet flavors of caramel and apple, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, potluck, or just because, this cake fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it a day ahead and let the flavors meld—it’s even better on the second day!
• Deliciously Moist Texture: The grated apples keep the cake tender and juicy, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Caramel Apple Cake requires just a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have at home. They come together to create a deliciously moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion!

For the Cake

• 90 g granulated sugar
• 25 g butter
• 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 (for batter)
• 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 Caramel Buttercream

• 100 g butter (room temperature)
• 165 g powdered sugar
• 2-3 tsp caramel
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

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

Variations

This Caramel Apple Cake recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Use Different Fruits: Try substituting half of the apples with pears or even shredded carrots for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Swap out some of the cinnamon for nutmeg or ginger to give your cake a warm kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smoother. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans so that your cakes release easily once baked.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a small pan over medium heat, combine 90 g of granulated sugar and 1 tbsp of water. Stir until dissolved. Allow it to cook undisturbed until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully stir in 25 g of butter and 100 g of heavy cream along with a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: 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 they are evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together 90 g granulated sugar and 100 g dark brown sugar with 110 g vegetable oil until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully blended.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake Your Cakes

Divide your batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Buttercream

While your cakes are cooling, make the caramel buttercream by beating together room temperature butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in about 2-3 teaspoons of caramel sauce and additional vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of your caramel buttercream on top before adding the second layer. Top with remaining buttercream and drizzle generously with homemade salted caramel sauce.

And there you have it! A beautiful Caramel Apple Cake that’s sure to delight everyone who tries it! Enjoy every luscious slice!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking can sometimes feel intimidating, but with these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect Caramel Apple Cake that will impress everyone!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples enhance the flavor and moisture of your cake. Choose a variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a beautiful balance of sweetness and tartness.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Using a kitchen scale for dry ingredients ensures consistency and helps achieve that perfect cake texture.

• Room temperature ingredients: Allowing eggs, sour cream, and butter to reach room temperature helps create a smooth batter, resulting in an evenly baked cake that’s both soft and fluffy.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid developing too much gluten. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the tender crumb you’re aiming for.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Patience pays off! Allow your cake layers to cool fully before applying the caramel buttercream. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake can be as fun as making it! With just a few creative touches, you can elevate your dessert and make it even more delightful for your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts adds an extra crunch and complements the apple flavor beautifully.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, topping each slice with whipped coconut cream gives a light and airy finish that pairs perfectly with the caramel.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and balances out the sweetness of the cake. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!

• Caramel sauce drizzle: For those who can’t get enough caramel, serve additional homemade salted caramel sauce on the side. Guests can drizzle their slices according to taste!

• Spiced tea: A warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea enhances the flavors of fall in this dessert. The warmth from the drink contrasts nicely with the cool cake.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the rich cake, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.

With these serving suggestions, your Caramel Apple Cake will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! 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 for gatherings or simply enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave slices for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful recipe!

Can I use different types of apples in my Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the sweetness, you can experiment with your favorites such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Each will bring its unique flavor and texture to the cake.

How do I achieve the best texture in my Caramel Apple Cake?

To ensure a soft and moist cake, remember to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour. Avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients to keep the cake fluffy.

Can I make this Caramel Apple Cake without sour cream?

Yes! If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk. These alternatives will still provide moisture and tanginess.

How long will my Caramel Apple Cake last?

When stored properly, your Caramel Apple Cake will last up to a week in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, it’s best enjoyed within the first few days after baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! Its warm spices and creamy caramel bring a touch of fall into every slice. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, this cake is truly special. Don’t hesitate to share your baking experience with friends and family—I can’t wait for you to try it!