Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this delightful Caramel Apple Cake! This cake is my go-to recipe for any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive celebration with friends. The combination of tender apples and smooth caramel buttercream is simply irresistible, making every bite feel like a warm hug. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen.

Every time I bake this Caramel Apple Cake, my home fills with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to treat your loved ones or as a sweet ending to a special occasion. Trust me; once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a cherished recipe in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this cake is perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet flavors of apple and caramel—it’s a hit across all ages!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this cake in advance and store it for later, making it ideal for meal prep or unexpected guests.
• Deliciously moist: The grated apples keep the cake incredibly moist while adding natural sweetness that balances perfectly with the caramel topping.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Caramel Apple Cake! Each item plays an important role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

For the Cake

• 90 g granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp water
• 25 g butter
• 100 g heavy cream
• Pinch of salt
• 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 Caramel Apple Cake is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor.
• Change the fruit: Substitute grated apples with grated carrots or pears for a different twist!
• Spice it up: Try adding nutmeg or ginger to elevate the spice profile of your cake.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making your homemade caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g granulated sugar and 1 tbsp water. Stir until dissolved, then let it cook without stirring until it’s golden brown. Carefully add 25 g butter, 100 g heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth. This rich caramel sauce will elevate your cake to new heights!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 240 g all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground all spice. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that everything is evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, grated apples (200 g), and 110 g vegetable oil until well combined. Then add in those room-temperature eggs (2) one at a time along with 140 g sour cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract. The mixture should be creamy and inviting!

Step 4: Blend It All Together

Now it’s time to combine your wet and dry mixtures! Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to be light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The smell will be heavenly as it bakes—this is where the magic happens!

Step 6: Make the Buttercream

While your cake cools down, prepare your buttercream by beating together room-temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g), caramel (2-3 tsp), and another splash of vanilla extract (1 tsp). Beat until light and fluffy; this will create that silky finish on top of your cake.

Step 7: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Once cooled completely, spread that luscious caramel buttercream over your cake. Drizzle some extra homemade salted caramel on top for an added touch of sweetness!

And there you have it! A beautiful Caramel Apple Cake that is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Enjoy sharing this lovely creation with those you care about!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking a Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful journey, and with these expert tips, you’ll create a masterpiece that will impress everyone!

• Use fresh apples: Freshly grated apples not only add moisture but also enhance the flavor of your cake, making it taste even more delicious.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature. This helps the batter to combine smoothly and results in a light, fluffy cake texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher texture.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to check if it’s done. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked every time.

• Let it cool completely: Allow your cake to cool fully before frosting it. This prevents the buttercream from melting off and gives you a beautiful finish.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake beautifully can enhance its appeal even further! Here are some ideas that will make your dessert shine on any table.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon adds an aromatic touch that complements the apple and caramel flavors.
• Fresh apple slices: Decoratively arrange thin slices of fresh apple on top of the cake for a vibrant presentation.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm slices of cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream; its lightness balances the rich flavors of the cake.
• Spiced chai tea: Brewed spiced chai makes for a cozy beverage that enhances the fall flavors of your dessert.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a bright contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making it an ideal side dish for gatherings.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Caramel Apple Cake will be not just delightful but also visually appealing—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to create a delightful dessert in advance that can be enjoyed later. Here’s how to store and manage your cake effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake, which can extend its life to about a week.
• Ensure the cake is well-wrapped if you choose to refrigerate it to prevent dryness.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• For a warm treat, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Caramel Apple Cake!

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are popular for their tartness, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for different flavors.

How can I make the caramel buttercream smoother?

If your caramel buttercream seems too thick, gradually add a little more heavy cream while mixing until you reach your desired consistency.

Is there a way to make this Caramel Apple Cake healthier?

You can substitute part of the sugar with applesauce or reduce it altogether. Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour is another healthier option.

What occasions are best suited for this Caramel Apple Cake?

This cake is perfect for fall gatherings, birthdays, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a comforting dessert.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Caramel Apple Cake as much as I do! Its soft texture and delightful flavors truly capture the essence of fall. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your creations with loved ones—baking is always better when shared!