Irresistible Caramel Apple Cake Recipe for Fall Delights

The sweet aroma of caramel apple cake wafts through the air, a delightful blend of warm spices and luscious apples that instantly makes your mouth water. Imagine sinking your fork into a moist slice, where the rich caramel drizzles over the tender cake, creating an irresistible dessert experience that feels like a cozy hug in food form.

This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate. Whether it’s a crisp autumn afternoon or a cozy family gathering, this caramel apple cake brings joy and nostalgia. Each bite transports you to fond memories of apple-picking adventures and laughter shared over homemade treats.

I still remember the first time I baked this cake for my family. Their smiles and compliments made my day truly special.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it for fluffier results.

• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness; adjust based on your taste preference.

• Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise beautifully; make sure it’s fresh for best results.

• Cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the flavor; use fresh ground if possible.

• Salt: Just a pinch balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

• Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for a creamy batter; it adds richness.

• Eggs: Provides moisture and binds ingredients together; use room temperature eggs.

• Apples: Tart varieties like Granny Smith work well; peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

• Brown Sugar: For that deep caramel flavor; dark brown sugar adds extra richness.

• Cream or Milk: To achieve the right consistency in your batter; use whole milk for creaminess.

• Caramel Sauce: You can make your own or buy store-bought for convenience; drizzle generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. This part is crucial because nobody wants their masterpiece to cling to the pan like an overly affectionate cat.

Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well blended. The scent of cinnamon will fill your kitchen with warmth.

Cream butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake that lovely lift.

Add eggs: Gradually add eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mix, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. You should see a lovely golden color developing here.

Mix wet and dry ingredients: Slowly combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while alternating with milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and airy!

Fold in apples: Gently fold in chopped apples using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Don’t worry if some apples peek out – they’ll create pockets of deliciousness when baked.

Pour batter: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth out with a spatula. You’re almost there! It’s time to get this beauty in the oven.

Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean – just don’t eat it!

Drizzle caramel sauce: Once cooled slightly but still warm, drizzle generous amounts of caramel sauce over each slice before serving. Trust me, this is where magic happens.

Enjoy your freshly baked caramel apple cake with friends or family – just be prepared for them to ask for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan. Mix dry ingredients separately to ensure even distribution before adding wet ingredients, which guarantees a fluffy cake texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp for a sweeter touch or add nuts for texture. You can also drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for an indulgent finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, microwave slices for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Baking this caramel apple cake reminds me of my childhood, when my grandma would bake similar treats every Sunday. Her secret ingredient? Lots of love and a splash of laughter!

FAQ

What type of apples are best for caramel apple cake?

Granny Smith apples provide the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness in this recipe.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought caramel works just fine if you’re short on time.

How do I prevent my cake from being too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter; this keeps your cake light and airy.

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Caramel Apple Cake

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Caramel apple cake is a delightful fusion of tender cake, warm spices, and luscious apples, all drizzled with rich caramel sauce. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive autumn celebrations. Each bite brings a sense of nostalgia, making it a beloved treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Enjoy it warm with ice cream or as a sweet breakfast delight—it’s versatile enough for any time of day!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups chopped Granny Smith apples (about 2 medium apples)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mix, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture alternating with milk until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped apples gently.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (112g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 65mg