As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries a crisp hint of autumn, there’s nothing quite like the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked Caramel Apple Cake wafting through the kitchen. This delightful creation captures the essence of fall, featuring a supremely moist apple cake layered with a luscious caramel buttercream and drizzled with rich homemade salted caramel sauce.
I first discovered this recipe during an afternoon baking spree, searching for something that would bring warmth and coziness to a crisp evening. With its irresistible flavors and ease of preparation, this cake quickly became a go-to for potlucks and family dinners alike. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a comforting dessert at home, this Caramel Apple Cake is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the layers of warmth and sweetness that make this cake an essential part of any fall gathering!
Why is Caramel Apple Cake so delightful?
Irresistible flavors: This cake combines the nostalgic taste of fall with soft, juicy apples intertwined within a moist cake, making it a seasonal favorite.
Effortlessly impressive: With minimal prep and baking time, you can wow your family and friends without being a pro in the kitchen.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the sweet, buttery cake.
Perfect for gatherings: It’s a must-have at potlucks and holidays, as its rich flavors resonate with everyone craving comfort food.
Easy to customize: You can easily adapt the recipe with different fruits or cake variations to keep it fresh and exciting! For more ways to elevate your desserts, check out our tips on perfecting your baking techniques.
Caramel Apple Cake Ingredients
• Discover everything you need to create a stunning Caramel Apple Cake.
For the Cake
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; for a richer flavor, try using brown sugar.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the cake’s structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents for a fluffy rise; ensure they’re fresh for the best results.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm autumn flavor; if you don’t have it, apple pie spice works well too.
• Ground Allspice – Offers an aromatic warmth; you can omit this if it’s not on hand.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Contributes depth and moisture; light brown sugar can work in a pinch.
• Grated Apples – The highlight of the cake; include the juice for extra flavor without draining.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; melt some coconut oil for a fun twist.
• Eggs – Crucial for moisture and structure; you can use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
• Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and moisture; Greek yogurt makes a great substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; always opt for pure extract for the best taste.
For the Caramel Sauce
• Water – Activates the sugar while cooking down; no substitutes are necessary.
• Butter – Richness is key to the caramel’s flavor; margarine can work if needed.
• Heavy Cream – Ensures a smooth texture in the caramel; half-and-half can lighten it up.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the salted caramel; sea salt adds a lovely complexity.
For the Buttercream
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• Vanilla Extract – Amplifies the frosting’s taste; don’t substitute for best results.
With these ingredients gathered, you’re all set to bake a warm, enticing Caramel Apple Cake that embodies the spirit of fall and coziness! Enjoy the baking adventure!
How to Make Caramel Apple Cake
-
Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 170ºC (340ºF) and line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) square pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground allspice. This will ensure even distribution and a light texture in your cake.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well combined, reflecting a soft, inviting texture.
-
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Once combined, carefully add the grated apples and stir until just incorporated—be cautious not to overmix, as this will keep your cake tender!
-
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Make the Caramel: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water, cooking over medium heat until the mixture turns golden brown. Stir in the butter and heavy cream until smooth, then add a pinch of salt. Chill the caramel sauce until it’s set.
-
Prepare Buttercream: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter on high speed for about 4 minutes until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and the cooled caramel until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
-
Assemble Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the caramel buttercream on top and drizzle with additional salted caramel sauce as desired.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Caramel Apple Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and bring your own unique twist to the classic flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make a delectable gluten-free version.
- Fruit Swap: Use shredded zucchini or finely chopped pears instead of apples for a fresh new flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and richness.
- Cream Cheese Buttercream: Swap butter for cream cheese in the frosting for a tangy, delightful twist that balances sweetness perfectly.
- Spice It Up: Add a hint of nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warming spice that enhances the autumn flavors.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan-friendly dessert.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent addition, drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cake—who could resist that?
- Caramel Swirl: Before baking, gently swirl some caramel sauce into the batter for extra pockets of caramel goodness throughout the cake.
With these variations, your Caramel Apple Cake will always have something exciting to offer!
Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Caramel Apple Cake
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and sour cream, are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture in your Caramel Apple Cake.
-
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to maintain cake’s tenderness. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture—nobody wants that!
-
Cake Testing: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if your cake is done; it should come out clean. If it’s sticky, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
-
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the icing might melt into the cake rather than sit beautifully on top.
-
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week to keep it fresh and moist.
How to Store and Freeze Caramel Apple Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate the cake, well-covered, for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, microwave it for 10-15 seconds, adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if desired. This will elevate your Caramel Apple Cake experience!
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this luscious cake is just the beginning of a memorable meal experience.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop enhances the cake’s sweetness, bringing a creamy balance to the rich flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Melts beautifully into warm cake, providing an irresistible contrast that amplifies the caramel notes.
- Cinnamon Sugar Crumb Topping: Add a sprinkle of this simple blend for a delightful crunch, elevating your cake’s cozy vibe.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee pair wonderfully, cutting through the sweetness while enhancing the cake’s warm spices.
- Caramel Drizzle: Extra sauce on top amplifies the caramel flavor, inviting you to dive into an overload of sweetness and richness.
- Chai Tea: Its spicy warmth complements the cake’s flavors, offering a comforting and soothing drink option for a cozy gathering.
- Apple Cider: This fresh beverage brings a crisp apple taste, echoing the cake’s key ingredient and enhancing the fall feel.
- Pecan Pie Bites: For a nibble alongside the cake, these bite-sized treats bring in a nutty crunch that complements the sweet apple flavors.
- Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Their seasoned crunch contrasts nicely with the cake’s softness, providing a delightful textural experience.
Make Ahead Options
Making this delectable Caramel Apple Cake ahead of time is a breeze and perfect for busy weeknights or holiday planning! You can prepare the cake up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and allowing it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. For the buttercream and salted caramel sauce, store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the cake’s moistness, avoid frosting it until just before serving; once ready, simply spread the chilled caramel buttercream on the cake and drizzle with salted caramel, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that tastes just as fresh!
Caramel Apple Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples work best for the Caramel Apple Cake?
I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination gives the cake a delightful balance of flavors. Ensure the apples are firm and fresh without any dark spots or bruising, as this will enhance the overall taste of your cake.
How should I store the Caramel Apple Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 1 week. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before serving to experience its full flavors!
Can I freeze Caramel Apple Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and it will be as delicious as freshly baked!
How do I troubleshoot a dense cake?
If your Caramel Apple Cake turns out dense, check that you didn’t overmix the batter, especially after adding the flour. Another possibility could be that the leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) weren’t fresh. Ensure they’re not expired for optimal rise—that’s where the magic happens!
Is this Caramel Apple Cake suitable for those with allergies?
The cake contains common allergens like eggs and wheat. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, you can substitute flax eggs for a vegan option and use gluten-free flour. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety, particularly with cross-contamination for gluten-sensitive individuals.
How long can I keep homemade salted caramel sauce?
Homemade salted caramel sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It’s versatile and can be drizzled over so many desserts, adding a sweet, buttery flavor wherever you go. Just reheat gently before using for the best experience!
Irresistible Caramel Apple Cake with Salted Buttercream Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 170ºC (340ºF) and line a 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) square pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground allspice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, then carefully add the grated apples.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water over medium heat until golden brown, then stir in butter and heavy cream.
- Beat the butter on high speed until fluffy, then gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cooled caramel.
- Once the cake is cooled, spread the caramel buttercream on top and drizzle with salted caramel sauce.