Caramel Apple Cake Recipe

If you love the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a single irresistible dessert, then this Caramel Apple Cake is going to become your new best friend. Imagine tender, moist cake bursting with fresh, grated apples, warm spices, and finished with a luscious caramel buttercream topping that’s both sweet and slightly salty. This cake brings together the comforting essence of caramel and apple in a way that turns every bite into a celebration. Whether for a family gathering or a simple indulgence, the Caramel Apple Cake is a scrumptious treat that promises smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect balance in the Caramel Apple Cake. Each component plays a vital role, from the spices that add warmth to the apples that keep it so wonderfully moist. Don’t worry—these are simple pantry staples and fresh produce that you probably already have on hand, making the baking process both straightforward and rewarding.

• Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness and caramelization in both the caramel and cake layers.
• Butter: Adds rich texture and flavor, especially important in your salted caramel and buttercream.
• Heavy cream: Creates the smooth, creamy texture of the salted caramel sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the base structure for the cake, making it tender but sturdy.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise perfectly to a fluffy, light crumb.
• Ground cinnamon and allspice: Bring that signature autumn spice flavor to every bite.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like richness enhancing the cake’s flavor complexity.
• Grated apples: Fresh and juicy, they keep the cake moist and add natural sweetness.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist without overwhelming the delicate apple flavors.
• Eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract: These help bind the ingredients while imparting richness and aroma.
• Powdered sugar: For that smooth, creamy caramel buttercream topping.
• Salt: A pinch pops the flavors in the caramel and balances the cake’s sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Salted Caramel

Start by making the homemade salted caramel, which gives this cake its signature buttery, sweet finish. Melt granulated sugar with a tablespoon of water in a saucepan over medium-high heat, letting it bubble into a beautiful golden brown. Adding butter and heavy cream carefully creates a rich sauce that’s both smooth and slightly salty. This step is a bit of an art, but it’s worth it — your kitchen will smell amazing, and this caramel will elevate the entire cake experience.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While the caramel cools, preheat your oven and line your baking pan. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and allspice in a large bowl. Stir in both granulated and dark brown sugar. This combination of spices and sugars lays the flavorful foundation for the Caramel Apple Cake’s moist and aromatic crumb.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the cake, ensuring it stays tender and soft — perfect for balancing the grated apples’ texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Apples and Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the grated apples into the wet ingredients, then pour the entire wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing. The grated apples will keep your cake wonderfully moist and naturally sweet, while the spices enhance the overall flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and place it in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The anticipation is half the fun here, as the aroma wafts through your kitchen inviting you to indulge soon.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Buttercream

While the cake cools, whip up the caramel buttercream. Start by mixing softened butter until light and fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a few teaspoons of your homemade caramel. This decadent frosting is the perfect silky companion to the spiced apple cake, balancing sweetness with that irresistible caramel flavor.

Step 7: Assemble the Caramel Apple Cake

Spread the caramel buttercream evenly over the cooled cake. Drizzle additional salted caramel on top and swirl it gently into the frosting using a spatula for a lovely marbled look. This finishing touch not only adds visual appeal but also amps up the caramel goodness, making every slice a flavor-packed delight.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Garnishes

To dress up your Caramel Apple Cake, consider a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast. A dusting of cinnamon or a light drizzle of extra caramel can also add flair. Fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream alongside each serving will make it look truly irresistible and add another layer of freshness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like a cup of spiced chai, hot apple cider, or even a creamy latte. For something a little more indulgent, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a rich caramel sauce on the side turns your slice into a decadent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Caramel Apple Cake as individual mini cakes or cupcakes topped with caramel swirl buttercream for a fun twist at parties. Layered into a trifle glass with bits of cake, whipped cream, and caramel sauce, it becomes an elegant, crowd-pleasing dessert. For a rustic feel, cut into rough squares and serve family-style, inviting your guests to dig in with their hands.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Caramel Apple Cake keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cake actually tends to taste even better after a day as the flavors meld and deepen. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

If you want to keep this cake longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature. The caramel buttercream will remain creamy, and the cake moist as ever.

Reheating

For a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, warm your slice gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven (around 150ºC/300ºF) for 10 minutes. This warms the caramel buttercream slightly, making it soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Pair with a scoop of ice cream for extra magic.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making salted caramel from scratch?

Absolutely! While homemade salted caramel adds a fresh richness, high-quality store-bought caramel can save you time and still deliver great flavor. Just add a pinch of salt to mimic the salted caramel taste in your buttercream.

What type of apples are best for this cake?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully. They hold their shape well and add a nice contrast to the sweet caramel flavors without turning mushy.

Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?

Yes, plain full-fat yogurt is a good substitute for sour cream and will maintain the cake’s moist texture. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and thick for the closest match.

Is it necessary to grate the apples instead of chopping them?

Grating the apples helps distribute moisture evenly throughout the cake and creates a consistent texture. Chopping can cause uneven moisture pockets, so grating is preferred for this recipe.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?

Store leftover caramel in a sealed container in the fridge and gently warm it before use. If it thickens too much, a splash of heavy cream or warm water can help loosen it back to a pourable consistency.

Final Thoughts

Making this Caramel Apple Cake is like wrapping yourself up in a warm kitchen hug filled with cozy spices, tender apples, and rich caramel. It’s a dessert that feels special yet surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming your go-to cake for seasonal celebrations and sweet moments alike!

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