Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, then you’re going to love this Caramel Apple Cake! Imagine a super soft and moist apple cake, topped with silky caramel buttercream and drizzled with homemade salted caramel sauce. It’s not just delicious; it’s a warm hug in cake form! This recipe has become a family favorite over the years and is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to bake it again and again.

This cake is more than a sweet treat; it’s a way to bring everyone together. Whether you’re hosting friends for coffee or celebrating a birthday, this Caramel Apple Cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become your go-to dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect even for novice bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The delightful blend of apples and caramel makes it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the cake in advance; it stores well in the fridge for days.
• Delicious Flavor: Each bite is packed with cozy autumn flavors that scream comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Caramel Apple Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Caramel Sauce

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

For the Cake

• 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
• 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 Buttercream

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Mix in spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for an added flavor twist.
• Use different fruits: Swap out some of the apples for pears or even grated carrots for a unique spin.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making your caramel sauce first. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Allow it to simmer without stirring until it turns a golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully stir in the butter, followed by the heavy cream and salt. This step is crucial because homemade caramel adds richness that store-bought simply can’t match.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and allspice. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, grated apples, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined. Gradually add your dry mixture to this wet mixture. Stir until just combined. This ensures your cake will be fluffy without overmixing!

Step 3: Bake Your Cake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour two round cake pans. Divide batter evenly between them and smooth out the tops. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 4: Make the Buttercream

While your cakes cool down on wire racks, prepare the buttercream. Beat room-temperature butter until fluffy, then slowly add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Once blended smoothly, mix in caramel sauce and vanilla extract until well incorporated. This creamy frosting will take your cake from good to extraordinary!

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cakes are completely cooled, layer them with generous amounts of caramel buttercream in between each layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake as lavishly as you like! Finish off with an extra drizzle of homemade caramel sauce on top for that wow factor.

Now you have an incredibly delicious Caramel Apple Cake ready to enjoy! Share it with friends or keep it all to yourself—no judgment here!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Creating the perfect Caramel Apple Cake is all about attention to detail and a little love. Here are some tips to help you achieve cake perfection!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples not only add moisture but also enhance the flavor of your cake. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work beautifully for this recipe.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air better, resulting in a lighter cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we definitely want to avoid for this fluffy delight.

• 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 ready! This prevents overbaking, ensuring your cake stays moist.

• Allow it to cool completely: Patience is key! Letting your cake cool completely before frosting ensures that your caramel buttercream sets beautifully and doesn’t melt off.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Your Caramel Apple Cake deserves to be presented with flair! Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, these serving suggestions will enhance its appeal and taste.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the caramel and apple perfectly.

• Whipped cream: A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream adds lightness and balances the sweetness of the caramel. It’s an easy way to elevate each slice!

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of warm cake with cold vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavors—pure bliss!

• Spiced Pumpkin Soup: This warm soup brings in fall flavors and pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of the cake for a comforting meal.

• Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These roasted sweet potatoes add a savory-sweet element that complements the dessert without overpowering it.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after indulging in the rich flavors of your Caramel Apple Cake.

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this delightful autumn treat! Enjoy baking and savor each delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only a delightful dessert for any occasion but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week or save some for upcoming gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate it for up to a week; just be sure to cover it well to keep it moist.
• Keep any leftover caramel sauce in a separate container in the fridge for easy access.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen slice, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a warm treat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual slices on low power for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Caramel Apple Cake.

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

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the sweetness, feel free to explore varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

How do I make the caramel sauce for my Caramel Apple Cake?

To make homemade salted caramel sauce, simply combine granulated sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until dissolved, then cook without stirring until it turns amber. Remove from heat and carefully add butter and cream. Stir until smooth and add salt to taste!

Can I substitute sour cream in this Caramel Apple Cake?

Yes! You can replace sour cream with plain yogurt or even applesauce if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just note that this may slightly change the texture of the cake.

Is there a way to make this Caramel Apple Cake gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help maintain structure while still delivering that delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about baking this delightful Caramel Apple Cake! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort that captures the essence of fall. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a slice yourself, I know you’ll find joy in every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creation!