If you adore the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a comforting dessert, this Caramel Apple Cake Recipe is bound to become your new go-to favorite. It perfectly balances tender, spiced cake studded with juicy apples and topped with silky caramel sauce for a dreamy finish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite is a celebration of sweetness and spice that’ll have everyone asking for seconds and the secret to your baking magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to create a moist texture, warm spice, and that irresistible caramel finish. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and delivering a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your cake’s structure, providing the perfect crumb.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to create just the right texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warming spice that’s essential to apple desserts.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle spice that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, moist crumb and tender texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overwhelming the spices.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Provides a delightful molasses note for added depth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the entire flavor spectrum with its sweet aroma.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk: Adds brightness and helps keep the cake exceptionally tender.
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped: Fresh apples bring moistness and a natural sweetness that shines through.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you like a bit of texture contrast.
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce: The star topping that amplifies the cake’s lusciousness with gooey, buttery sweetness.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out with a beautiful crust that’s easy to slice.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined. This blend of dry ingredients sets the stage for your cake’s tender crumb and those irresistible warming spices.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, helping your cake rise with a soft, tender texture and developing a rich caramel undertone from the brown sugar.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract for that subtle, fragrant sweetness that brings all the flavors together.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk into the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make the cake tough, so keep it light and tender.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Walnuts
Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts if you’re using them. These add delightful pops of flavor and texture that make the cake truly special—juicy bites of apple and crunchy walnuts are a winning combo.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and spread it out with a spatula for a uniform thickness. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—this means it’s perfectly cooked through but still moist.
Step 8: Cool and Add Caramel
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. After it’s fully cooled, drizzle the jar of caramel sauce over the top and spread it evenly. The smooth caramel adds an indulgent, luscious finish that takes this cake to the next level.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the caramel. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or even a few thin apple slices for a pretty presentation that hints at what’s inside.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a cozy afternoon treat, serve it alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea or coffee to complement the warm flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices with a drizzle of extra caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt to add a modern twist. For a festive touch, plate it with caramelized apple slices and toasted nuts around the edges, turning a simple dessert into a showstopper that impresses everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Caramel Apple Cake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it moist and flavorful.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm up slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F until warmed through. This brings back that fresh-baked feeling with gooey caramel delight.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith work well for contrast, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp add their own lovely flavor. Just be sure to peel and chop them for the best texture.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk adds tenderness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, simply leave out the walnuts. The cake will still be moist and flavorful without them, making it perfect for those with nut allergies.
How long does the caramel stay good on the cake?
The caramel topping sets nicely but remains soft. It’s best enjoyed within a day or two for optimal texture and flavor, though the cake is still delicious beyond that.
Can this cake be made into cupcakes?
Definitely! Just adjust the baking time to about 18-22 minutes and use cupcake liners. It’s a fun way to share this classic flavor in a bite-sized form.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Caramel Apple Cake Recipe that feels like the essence of a perfect autumn day baked into every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen — trust me, it’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles, warm memories, and requests for repeat servings every time.
Print
Caramel Apple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 35m
- Total Time: 0h 55m
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A moist and flavorful caramel apple cake featuring tender chunks of apple and warm spices, topped with a luscious caramel sauce. Perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a comforting dessert with a delightful balance of sweet and spiced flavors.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan and set it aside.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cake texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in apples and nuts: Carefully fold the chopped apples and walnuts (if using) into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Add caramel topping: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Set caramel and serve: Let the caramel set slightly before slicing and serving the cake. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a nut-free option, omit the walnuts or substitute with seeds of choice.
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding caramel to prevent it from melting and running off the cake.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tang.
- Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave briefly to enjoy warm caramel apple cake.
