Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

If you’re looking for a recipe that captures the essence of fall, then this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is just the thing! This delightful cake is packed with fresh Granny Smith apples and crunchy pecans, creating a warm and inviting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a busy weeknight treat, this cake will surely become a favorite in your home.

What makes this cake special is not just its delicious flavors but also the homemade caramel glaze that takes it to the next level. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it an absolute showstopper on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll whip up this cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the combination of apples and pecans, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just because you deserve something sweet!
• Make Ahead: Bake it in advance and enjoy the flavors as they deepen over time; it also freezes well!
• Decadent Flavor: The rich caramel glaze adds an irresistible finishing touch that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These are things you might already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store.

For the Cake

• 1½ cups of cooking oil
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3½ cups Granny Smith apples (peeled and finely chopped) (approximately 3-4 apples)
• 1 cup pecans (finely chopped)

For the Caramel Glaze

• ¾ cups unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks)
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise throughout the cake.
• Use Different Nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Try Other Fruits: Swap out the Granny Smith apples for pears or even diced peaches for a different fruity twist.
• Spice It Up: Add more spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the autumn flavor profile!

How to Make Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooking oil and granulated sugar. Whisk them together until well blended. This mixture creates a moist base for your cake. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in your vanilla extract for that lovely aroma!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients while mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake—so be gentle here!

Step 3: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the chopped Granny Smith apples and pecans into your batter. This step not only adds flavor but also gives texture to each slice of cake.

Step 4: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into a greased bundt pan or two round cake pans. Spread it evenly and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 5: Make the Caramel Glaze

While your cake is cooling, let’s whip up that luscious caramel glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in light brown sugar and whole milk. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring continuously until it thickens slightly—about 5 minutes should do it.

Step 6: Drizzle & Serve

Once your caramel glaze is ready, drizzle it generously over your cooled cake. Allow some time for it to set before slicing into this delightful dessert. Enjoy every bite of your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help ensure your Apple Pecan Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Apples: Using Granny Smith apples not only adds a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake but also keeps the apples firm during baking.

• Chop Pecans Finely: Finely chopping the pecans allows them to distribute evenly throughout the batter, enhancing each slice with their delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter just until combined prevents gluten development, resulting in a tender and moist cake.

• Check for Doneness: Since ovens can vary, start checking your cake 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Let It Cool Before Glazing: Allowing your cake to cool completely before adding the caramel glaze ensures that it won’t melt and run off, resulting in a beautifully glazed treat.

How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this delicious cake! Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the cake while keeping it dairy-free.

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkling some extra chopped pecans on top not only enhances texture but also provides a beautiful visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream is an indulgent choice that pairs wonderfully with warm cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperature.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert table and balances the sweetness of the cake nicely.

• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, complements the flavors beautifully and makes for a comforting drink pairing.

• Coffee: For those who enjoy coffee, a rich brew enhances the nutty flavors in the cake while providing a warm pick-me-up—perfect for gatherings!

Now you’re ready to bake this scrumptious Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze! Enjoy sharing this comforting dessert with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance for gatherings or simply to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious cake:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake, where it can last up to a week.
• Remember to keep the caramel glaze separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm the entire cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Ensure it’s covered with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert.

Can I substitute other types of apples in the Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze?

While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and texture, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that they may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How do I ensure my Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze turns out moist?

To keep your cake moist, avoid over-mixing the batter and ensure your apples are finely chopped. Additionally, letting the cake cool completely before glazing will help retain moisture.

Can I add other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts or any nuts of your choice. Just remember that different nuts will impart different flavors and textures to your cake.

How long does the caramel glaze last?

The caramel glaze can be made ahead and stored separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just reheat gently before using!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors that brings warmth and joy with every bite. I hope you find as much delight in making this cake as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a special treat just for you. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!