The most delicious Caramel Apple Cake is here to steal the spotlight! This super soft and moist apple cake is topped with a smooth caramel buttercream and homemade salted caramel sauce. Bursting with flavors of fall, this cake is not only easy to make but also perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and caramel creates a mouthwatering dessert that everyone will love.
• Moist Texture: This cake stays incredibly moist thanks to the addition of sour cream and grated apples.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this delightful treat with ease.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for seasonal celebrations, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramel buttercream and drizzled sauce give it an elegant look that’s sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Caramel Apple Cake, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed evenly and aerated properly for a light texture.
• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan helps in even cooking and prevents sticking for a perfect cake release.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Caramel Sauce

• 90 g granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp water
• 25 g butter
• 100 g heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

For the Cake Batter

• 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 Frosting

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

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Start by combining the granulated sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until dissolved.
1. Bring to a boil without stirring until it turns golden brown.
2. Remove from heat and carefully add butter, then gradually stir in heavy cream.
3. Add a pinch of salt, mix well, and let cool.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground all spice.
1. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, grated apples, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
1. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is well blended.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
1. Use a rubber spatula to fold gently until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
1. Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top.
3. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare Buttercream Frosting

While the cake cools down:
1. In a bowl, beat room-temperature butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Add caramel sauce and vanilla extract; mix until fluffy.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled:
1. Spread the buttercream frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
2. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness.
3. Cut into slices and serve!

Enjoy your delectable Caramel Apple Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it right can elevate the experience for your guests or family. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your cake even more special.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the moist cake.

À La Mode

• Serve slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic, indulgent treat.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by adding more homemade salted caramel sauce on top before serving.

Topped with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake for added texture and flavor.

Served Warm

• Warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy the cake at its best temperature, releasing the flavors of cinnamon and caramel.

How to Perfect Caramel Apple Cake

Perfecting your Caramel Apple Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some useful tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture.
• Grate Fresh Apples: Freshly grated apples retain moisture and flavor better than pre-packaged options.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when done.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Apple Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Caramel Apple Cake can enhance its flavors and create a balanced dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the flavors of apple and cinnamon beautifully.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Creamy vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness of the caramel while adding a refreshing touch.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
   Crispy chips dusted with cinnamon sugar offer a crunchy contrast that pairs well with soft cake.
4. Roasted Nuts
   A mix of roasted almonds or pecans provides a savory crunch that enhances the overall sweetness of the dessert.
5. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the cake.
6. Hot Chocolate
   Rich hot chocolate offers comfort and warmth, making it an excellent pairing, especially in colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making a delicious Caramel Apple Cake. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Boldly skip the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs and sour cream can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Boldly overlook measuring accuracy: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugars.
• Boldly ignore the oven temperature: Every oven is different. Not preheating or misjudging the temperature can result in undercooked or burnt cake. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Boldly rush the cooling process: Cutting into a warm cake can cause it to crumble. Allow your Caramel Apple Cake to cool completely before slicing for perfect presentation.
• Boldly skimp on flavoring: Missing out on spices like cinnamon or vanilla can make your cake bland. Follow the recipe closely to enhance the flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Caramel Apple Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to maintain its flavor.

Freezing Caramel Apple Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating Caramel Apple Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in 15-second increments until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat slowly for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Caramel Apple Cake that may help you:

What makes a Caramel Apple Cake moist?

The combination of sour cream and grated apples adds moisture, keeping the cake soft and tender throughout.

Can I use different types of apples in my Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! Different apple varieties provide unique flavors. Try Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples for varied taste experiences.

How do I make my caramel sauce thicker?

To thicken your caramel sauce, allow it to simmer longer, stirring frequently until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup similar to regular flour for a gluten-free version of this delicious dessert.

Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Certainly! Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the flavors well. You can also top the cake with additional caramel drizzle for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Cake is not only soft and moist but also captures the essence of fall with every bite. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or toppings!

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Caramel Apple Cake

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of autumn with our Caramel Apple Cake, a delightful dessert that combines soft, moist cake with fresh grated apples and rich caramel flavors. This easy-to-make treat features a luscious caramel buttercream frosting and homemade salted caramel sauce that will impress your guests at any gathering. Perfect for birthdays, family dinners, or seasonal celebrations, this cake is sure to be the star of the show. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, even beginner bakers can create a stunning masterpiece that captures the essence of fall in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 grated apples
• 110 g vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 140 g sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 90 g granulated sugar (for caramel sauce)
• 1 tbsp water (for caramel sauce)
• 25 g butter (for caramel sauce)
• 100 g heavy cream (for caramel sauce)
• Pinch of salt (for caramel sauce)
• 100 g butter (for buttercream)
• 165 g powdered sugar
• 2–3 tsp caramel
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for buttercream)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the caramel sauce by combining sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat until dissolved. Boil until golden brown, then stir in butter and heavy cream with a pinch of salt. Let cool.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
3. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and all spice.
4. In another bowl, mix sugars, grated apples, oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer.
5. Gradually combine dry ingredients into wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just mixed.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. For buttercream frosting: Beat room temperature butter until creamy; add powdered sugar gradually followed by caramel sauce and vanilla extract.
8. Frost cooled cake with buttercream and drizzle with additional caramel before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Substitute different apple varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for varied flavors. For gluten-free options, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.