Caramel Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that screams comfort and warmth, then this Caramel Apple Cake is your answer! This delightful cake combines the sweetness of apples with the rich flavor of caramel, creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or just want something sweet to enjoy after dinner on a busy weeknight, this recipe has got you covered.

What makes this Caramel Apple Cake so special is its incredibly soft and moist texture. Each bite is bursting with apple goodness, topped with a luscious caramel buttercream that takes it to the next level. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip this cake up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of caramel and apples—perfect for dessert lovers of all ages!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and store it for later; it tastes just as amazing the next day!
• Delicious Fall Flavors: Celebrate the season with warm spices like cinnamon and allspice that make every bite feel like a hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Caramel Apple Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You probably have many of them already in your pantry!

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
• 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 Buttercream

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

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Change Up the Fruit: Swap out apples for pears or even berries for a different flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to give your cake an extra kick.
• Frosting Fun: Try using cream cheese frosting instead of caramel buttercream for a tangy twist.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by making the caramel sauce because it needs time to cool. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g of granulated sugar and 1 tbsp of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it boil without stirring until it turns an amber color. Remove from heat and add 25 g of butter, followed by 100 g of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Let it cool while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 240 g of 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 your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together 100 g granulated sugar and 100 g dark brown sugar until fluffy. Add in the grated apples (200 g), room-temperature vegetable oil (110 g), eggs (2), sour cream (140 g), and vanilla extract (1 tsp). Mixing these wet ingredients well helps create a moist batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be gentle—you want to keep that lovely airy texture! Mix just until combined; over-mixing can lead to dense cake.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans and divide the batter evenly between them. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat together room-temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g). Then add in your cooled caramel sauce (2-3 tsp) and vanilla extract (1 tsp). Beat until creamy—this will be your dreamy frosting!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread caramel buttercream on top before placing the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides generously with more buttercream. Drizzle any remaining caramel sauce over the top for that extra touch!

Now sit back and enjoy this heavenly Caramel Apple Cake with friends or family—it’s sure to be loved by everyone!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Cake

Making the perfect Caramel Apple Cake is all about following a few simple tips that ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and results in a fluffier cake. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to be dense, which we want to avoid.
• Grate the apples finely: Finely grated apples will blend better into the batter, ensuring that each bite is filled with delicious apple flavor while keeping the cake moist.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined will keep your cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, which we definitely don’t want!
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting: Frosting a warm cake can lead to melting buttercream, making it runny and difficult to work with. Patience is key for a beautifully frosted cake!
• Make extra salted caramel sauce: Having some extra on hand not only enhances the flavor but also makes a lovely drizzle for serving. It adds that gourmet touch you’ll want to show off!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

This delightful Caramel Apple Cake isn’t just about taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some ideas on how to serve this scrumptious dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a lovely crunch and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream serves as a dairy-free alternative to regular whipped cream, adding a light and airy element.
• Fresh apple slices: Thinly sliced apples on top not only look appealing but also enhance that fresh apple flavor in every bite.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm slices of caramel apple cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Cinnamon-spiced whipped topping: Lightly spiced whipped topping adds an extra layer of flavor that echoes the spices in the cake itself.
• Caramel popcorn: This sweet treat adds an unexpected crunch and complements the caramel flavors in your cake wonderfully.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of your dessert while adding vibrant color to your plate.

Now that you’re armed with these pro tips and serving ideas, your Caramel Apple Cake will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful dessert with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Cake is not just delicious; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and have a delightful dessert ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warm.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry! Here are some common inquiries about this delicious cake.

Can I make Caramel Apple Cake without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce per egg or mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.

How do I store my Caramel Apple Cake?

Store your Caramel Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices.

What makes this Caramel Apple Cake so moist?

The combination of grated apples and sour cream contributes to the cake’s moistness, while the caramel buttercream adds rich flavor that enhances every bite!

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! While apples are traditional, feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or even peaches for a twist on this delightful recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Caramel Apple Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a sweet way to celebrate the flavors of fall with family and friends. Each slice is filled with warmth and comfort, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy creating this special treat, and don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!