Caramel Apple Cake

The Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors of fall. With its moist apple cake base and rich caramel buttercream, this cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Its unique combination of spices and the homemade salted caramel sauce elevate it to a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cinnamon and allspice enhances the apple flavor, creating a warm and inviting taste.
• Moist Texture: This cake stays soft and moist thanks to the combination of sour cream and grated apples.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert with confidence.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in, this cake suits any occasion.
• Homemade Touch: The addition of homemade salted caramel sauce makes this cake feel extra special.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ideal for achieving a fluffy buttercream texture quickly.
• Baking pan: A standard size ensures even baking for your Caramel Apple Cake.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the best results in baking.

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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

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 90 g granulated sugar and 1 tbsp water.
2. Stir gently until dissolved, then allow it to boil without stirring until it turns amber in color.
3. Remove from heat and carefully stir in 25 g butter and 100 g heavy cream. Add a pinch of salt and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing 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
– 1/4 tsp ground all spice

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
– 100 g granulated sugar
– 100 g dark brown sugar
Add grated apples, then incorporate:
– 110 g vegetable oil
– 2 eggs
– 140 g sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step 5: Combine Mixtures & Bake

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour into the prepared pan. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare Buttercream Frosting

While the cake is cooling, beat together:
– 100 g butter
– 165 g powdered sugar
Mix until creamy, then add caramel sauce (about 2–3 tsp) and vanilla extract.

Step 7: Assemble & Serve

Once cooled, frost your Caramel Apple Cake with the buttercream frosting generously. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired before slicing into pieces to serve! Enjoy!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Caramel Apple Cake is an indulgent dessert that brings a delightful twist to any gathering. There are many creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious cake.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream complements the rich flavors of the cake, adding a luscious touch.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm cake, making each bite even more satisfying.

Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling additional homemade caramel sauce over each slice for a decadent treat.

Garnish with Fresh Apples

• Thinly sliced apples on top not only add freshness but also enhance the apple flavor in the cake.

Enjoy with Hot Beverages

• Pairing this cake with coffee or tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for fall gatherings.

How to Perfect Caramel Apple Cake

Achieving the ideal Caramel Apple Cake involves attention to detail and some helpful tips.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision ensures consistent results, leading to a perfectly baked cake every time.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs, sour cream, and butter to room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Do not overmix: Gently mix your batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, indicating it’s done baking.
• Cool properly before frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely before applying frosting to prevent it from melting and sliding off.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Apple Cake

Adding side dishes enhances the experience of enjoying Caramel Apple Cake. Here are some delightful options:

1. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts tossed in cinnamon and sugar add crunch and complement the flavors of the cake beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast that balances the richness of the cake.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheese pairs well with sweet desserts; consider including mild cheeses like brie or gouda for variety.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers a seasonal touch that matches well with fall flavors.
5. Chai Latte: The spiced notes of chai create a comforting beverage pairing that elevates your dessert experience.
6. Cinnamon Rolls: For those who love all things sweet and spiced, serving cinnamon rolls alongside can create an indulgent brunch spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Caramel Apple Cake to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient measurements: Always measure your ingredients precisely. This ensures that your cake rises perfectly and has the right texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake that doesn’t rise well.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cake texture. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the cake chewy instead of soft.
• Not preheating the oven: Preheat your oven before baking. A properly heated oven helps the cake rise evenly and bake beautifully.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off the cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep slices separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Caramel Apple Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without frosting, then add frosting after thawing.

Reheating Caramel Apple Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm individual slices for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry it out.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Caramel Apple Cake:

How do I make my Caramel Apple Cake moist?

To ensure your Caramel Apple Cake remains moist, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overbaking it. Adding grated apples also contributes moisture.

Can I use other fruits in this Caramel Apple Cake?

Yes! You can substitute apples with pears or even shredded zucchini for a unique twist on flavor while maintaining moisture.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for frosting?

You can use coconut cream or a vegan heavy whipping cream alternative if you want a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess in your frosting.

How long does Caramel Apple Cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Caramel Apple Cake will last about 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months when frozen.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the flavors of fall into any occasion. Its moist texture paired with smooth caramel buttercream makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with additional spices or nuts for extra flavor. We encourage you to try making this delicious treat at home!