Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, then this Caramel Apple Cake is just what you need! This cake is incredibly moist and packed with the delightful flavor of fresh apples. Topped with a smooth caramel buttercream and drizzled with homemade salted caramel sauce, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to enjoy something sweet on a cozy evening, this cake fits any occasion perfectly.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You don’t need to be a baking expert to create something that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone will love the warm flavors of apple and caramel, making it perfect for family gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake this cake in advance and store it for those busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: Each bite is soft and fluffy, thanks to the combination of grated apples and sour cream.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone dessert or pair it with ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Caramel Apple Cake comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need for this delicious treat!

For the Cake

• 90 g granulated sugar
• 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 the 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 Sauce

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

For the Buttercream

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have at home.

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Fruit Swap: Try using other fruits like pears or even shredded carrots for variety.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those who need it.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making your homemade caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, combine 90 g of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of water. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and turns golden brown. This step is vital because it’s where you develop that rich caramel flavor. Once ready, remove from heat and carefully stir in 25 g of butter, followed by 100 g of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large 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. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your cake batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together two eggs at room temperature with both types of sugar—100 g granulated and 100 g dark brown—until creamy. Add in 110 g vegetable oil, 140 g sour cream, and the vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients well creates a lovely base for your cake’s texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while gently folding them together until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; we want to keep that wonderful softness in our cake!

Step 5: Add Grated Apples

Now fold in your grated apples gently into the batter. The apples add moisture and natural sweetness—just trust me on this one!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour your batter into a greased cake pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Baking not only cooks our ingredients but also infuses them with warmth that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Step 7: Prepare the Buttercream

While waiting for your cake to cool down completely, prepare your buttercream by beating together room-temperature butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add in about 2-3 teaspoons of cooled caramel sauce along with another teaspoon of vanilla extract for that luscious caramel flavor.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread an even layer of caramel buttercream on top. Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over it if desired! This final touch makes every slice so irresistible.

And there you have it—your very own Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy every warm slice with friends or family; they’ll surely ask for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Making the perfect Caramel Apple Cake is easier than you might think! Follow these helpful tips to ensure your cake turns out deliciously every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ingredients like eggs and sour cream blend more smoothly when they’re at room temperature, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Grate the apples finely – Finely grated apples not only incorporate better into the batter but also help keep the cake moist and tender.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps maintain the cake’s light and airy texture. Overmixing can lead to a denser result.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick – Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is done. This prevents overbaking, which can dry out your cake.

• Let it cool completely before frosting – Allowing your cake to cool completely before adding the caramel buttercream will prevent it from melting and sliding off, giving you a beautiful finish.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake can elevate its charm! Here are some delightful ideas to present this seasonal treat beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – A sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top adds a wonderful crunch and complements the flavors.

• Caramel drizzle – Drizzle extra homemade salted caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch that enhances both taste and presentation.

• Whipped cream – A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream on each slice creates a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream serves as a refreshing counterpart to the warm spices in the cake, creating a delightful contrast.

• Spiced Chai Tea – Serve slices of your Caramel Apple Cake with steaming spiced chai tea for a cozy pairing that enhances those autumnal flavors.

• Fresh Fruit Salad – A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a light and refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of your cake without overpowering it.

• Cinnamon Sugar Puffed Pastry Twists – These flaky pastries are easy to make and add an extra element of fun to your dessert table while echoing the cinnamon notes in the cake.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family at any gathering with your fabulous Caramel Apple Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store it and keep it fresh for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating

• Remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and warm for 15-20 seconds until heated through.
• Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delicious Caramel Apple Cake.

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

Absolutely! You can use any variety of apple you prefer. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Fuji or Honeycrisp bring sweetness. Feel free to mix them for a more complex flavor!

How can I make this Caramel Apple Cake healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You could also reduce the sugar slightly or replace it with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.

Can I substitute sour cream in this recipe?

Yes! If you want to change things up, you can use plain yogurt as a substitute for sour cream. It will give you a similar texture and tangy flavor.

How long does this Caramel Apple Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts up to 3 days at room temperature or about a week in the fridge. If frozen, it can stay good for about 3 months.

Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the salted caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before using.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! It’s a wonderful dessert that captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and sweet caramel. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Happy baking!