Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, irresistible dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with soft apple chunks, aromatic spices, and a luscious homemade caramel sauce drizzled on top, this cake brings together classic fall flavors in a way that’s both comforting and festive. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on a chilly evening with a cup of tea. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to treats!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful list of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moistness, warmth, or that perfect balance of sweetness.

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cake that provides structure and a tender crumb.
• Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help the cake rise beautifully for a light texture.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: Spices that bring the warm, festive flavor essential to this cake.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Granulated and light brown sugars: Brown sugar adds a subtle caramel depth while granulated sugar keeps things light.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a moist, fluffy cake.
• Vanilla extract: Uplifts the entire flavor profile with its sweet aroma.
• Unsweetened applesauce and sour cream: These keep the cake incredibly moist and tender.
• Fresh diced apples: Provide juicy bursts of texture and natural sweetness.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
• Caramel sauce ingredients: Granulated sugar, butter, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt come together for the perfect glaze.

How to Make Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bakeware and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 8-inch round pans. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly shaped every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This combination is where all the spicy goodness and structure begin.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with granulated and light brown sugar on medium speed until fluffy and pale, about 3 minutes. This step is key for a light, velvety cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each to incorporate air. Then mix in the vanilla extract, which adds an inviting warmth.

Step 5: Blend in Applesauce and Sour Cream

Mix in the unsweetened applesauce and sour cream until smooth. These ingredients keep the cake wonderfully moist and tender.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps the cake soft.

Step 7: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Delicately fold in the diced apples and nuts with a spatula. This adds texture and bursts of sweet, fruity flavor.

Step 8: Pour and Smooth Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s) and smooth the top evenly. This helps the cake bake uniformly without peaks or cracks.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will begin filling with an incredible warm aroma!

Step 10: Make the Caramel Sauce

While the cake bakes, melt the granulated sugar over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. This is the foundation for the rich caramel glaze.

Step 11: Add Butter

Immediately add the butter pieces and stir until the mixture is smooth and melted together.

Step 12: Add Cream, Vanilla, and Salt

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly—expect it to bubble up. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt for enhanced depth of flavor.

Step 13: Drizzle the Caramel

Once the cake is out of the oven and cooled for about 10 minutes, generously drizzle the caramel sauce on top. This step turns it from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Step 14: Cool Completely and Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely to let the caramel set slightly. Then slice and get ready to enjoy every delectably spiced bite.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra wow, sprinkle toasted nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully for that creamy contrast to the spice and caramel.

Side Dishes

This cake stands well on its own, but you can serve it alongside a warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. For a brunch setting, pair it with fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with caramel sauce drizzled artistically on the plate. Or, stack small squares as mini cake bites on skewers for a fun party appetizer. Wrap a slice in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate—it will keep moist and flavorful for about 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either whole or sliced. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

For a warm slice, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) covered loosely with foil until warmed through. Adding a little extra caramel sauce before serving takes it to the next level.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?

Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape and add nice tartness that balances the sweetness.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s texture.

Can I omit the nuts in the recipe?

Yes, the nuts are entirely optional. If you or your guests have nut allergies, leaving them out will not compromise the moistness or flavor of the cake.

How do I know when the cake is done without a toothpick?

Look for a golden-brown top that springs back gently when pressed. The edges will slightly pull away from the pan, giving another clue that your cake is perfectly baked.

Can I prepare the batter the night before?

It’s best to bake the batter fresh for optimal rise and texture. However, you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine them right before baking the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe is a celebration of fall flavors and cozy comfort all wrapped up in one delightful dessert. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s deceptively simple to make, yet feels special enough for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it—you’re going to love how the spices, apples, and caramel come together in every bite!

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