Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Caramel Apple Cake! This cake is truly special to me, as it combines the delightful flavors of fresh apples with a rich caramel buttercream that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself after a long day, this cake is sure to impress.

The best part? It’s super easy to whip up! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even those who are new to baking will find joy in creating this scrumptious treat. Trust me, once you take a bite of this moist apple cake topped with smooth caramel goodness, you’ll understand why it’s become a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Moist: The grated apples keep the cake incredibly moist while adding natural sweetness.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready in no time!
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for everything from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of apple and caramel flavors.
• Make Ahead Option: Bake it a day in advance; it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this Caramel Apple Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious dessert!

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

One of the great things about this Caramel Apple Cake is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for grated pears or even shredded carrots for a different twist.
• Spice It Up: Enhance the spices by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making your homemade salted caramel sauce. Combine 90 g granulated sugar and 1 tbsp water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. As it starts to bubble, avoid stirring further—just let it cook until it turns a golden brown color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in 25 g butter and 100 g heavy cream along with a pinch of salt. This step creates a luscious sauce that will elevate your cake!

Step 2: Mix 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 an even rise and distribution of flavors in your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together 100 g granulated sugar, 100 g dark brown sugar, and 110 g vegetable oil until well combined. Add in the two room-temperature eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in 140 g sour cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract. This mixture will add richness and moisture to your cake.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while gently folding in your grated apples (200 g). Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that light texture! Pour everything into a prepared cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 5: Prepare the Buttercream

While your cake cools, beat together 100 g room temperature butter with 165 g powdered sugar until fluffy. Add in your reserved caramel sauce (about 2-3 tsp) and another splash of vanilla extract—this makes an irresistibly creamy frosting!

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread that silky caramel buttercream generously over the top. Drizzle with any remaining salted caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it—a beautiful Caramel Apple Cake that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Baking a Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect result every time!

• Use freshly grated apples: Freshly grating the apples ensures that they retain their moisture, giving your cake a rich apple flavor and keeping it wonderfully soft.

• Room temperature ingredients are key: Allowing your eggs, sour cream, and butter to reach room temperature will create a smoother batter that traps air better, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the tender crumb we’re aiming for.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. This helps prevent overbaking and keeps it moist.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Cooling your cake completely will prevent the frosting from melting off. A well-cooled cake allows for easy slicing and beautiful presentation!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Serving your Caramel Apple Cake can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on the top adds an inviting aroma and enhances that fall flavor.
• Fresh apple slices: Decorate each slice with thin apple wedges tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning; they add freshness and color.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake and balances its sweetness perfectly.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, top your cake with whipped coconut cream for an airy texture that pairs beautifully with caramel.
• Spiced Chai Tea: Serve slices of this cake alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea for an aromatic pairing that enhances those cozy flavors.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the rich cake, making it a balanced dessert option.

Enjoy every moment with your Caramel Apple Cake—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only delightful to eat but also fantastic for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy its flavors over a few days, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual pieces for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave slices for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries regarding the Caramel Apple Cake.

Can I make this Caramel Apple Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I store the Caramel Apple Cake?

You can store the Caramel Apple Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze as outlined above.

Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use your favorite apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Each will bring its unique flavor and texture to the cake.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. It will still give your cake that lovely moisture and tangy flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making and sharing this scrumptious Caramel Apple Cake! Its moist texture combined with rich caramel flavors makes it truly special—perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every delightful bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite add-ins. Happy baking!