Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze: A Delightful Autumn Treat

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through your kitchen. Apple pecan cake with caramel glaze is a timeless dessert that beautifully blends the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the fresh sweetness of apples and the rich crunch of pecans. Crowned with a buttery caramel glaze, this cake is the epitome of indulgence, perfect for any gathering or simply as a cozy treat with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. With its moist texture, balanced sweetness, and rustic charm, this cake will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients

This dessert draws on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a show-stopping cake. To achieve the perfect flavor balance, use ingredients like diced fresh apples—Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work exceptionally well—and a mix of granulated and brown sugar to provide depth. The pecans add texture and a nutty richness, while warm spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the cake’s autumnal character. The caramel glaze, made with butter, brown sugar, cream, and a hint of vanilla, is the finishing touch that elevates this dessert from delicious to extraordinary.

Instructions

To start, preheat your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C) and prepare your pan by greasing it generously and dusting it with flour. A 9×13-inch baking dish works well for this recipe, but if you prefer a more elegant presentation, a bundt pan is an excellent alternative.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, which include flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter, providing a consistent flavor in every bite. Set this mixture aside as you move on to preparing the wet ingredients.

In a larger mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until the sugars are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is crucial for creating a cohesive batter and ensuring a fluffy cake. Add the vanilla extract, which enhances the cake’s flavor with a subtle aromatic quality.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, taking care not to overmix. Once the batter is smooth, gently fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans. These additions not only add texture but also contribute to the moistness and flavor complexity of the cake. The apples release their natural juices as the cake bakes, while the pecans offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s softness.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 50 to 55 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack.

While the cake cools, prepare the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and stir in the brown sugar and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The glaze should have a rich, velvety consistency that pours easily.

As the final step, pour the caramel glaze over the slightly warm cake, letting it drip down the sides for a rustic and indulgent presentation. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing into the cake.

Tips

To make the most of this recipe, use fresh, tart apples, as their acidity balances the sweetness of the cake and glaze. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter can enhance their nutty flavor. When preparing the caramel glaze, ensure you don’t overheat the mixture, as this can cause it to crystallize. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle some chopped pecans over the glaze before it sets.

Serving Suggestions

This apple pecan cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a cozy autumnal vibe, serve it with a warm mug of spiced cider or a frothy cappuccino. It’s equally delightful as a standalone treat for breakfast or as the centerpiece of a dessert spread at holiday gatherings.

Storage

To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to enjoy it for a longer period, refrigerate the cake, ensuring it is well covered to prevent the glaze from becoming too sticky. Before serving, let the cake come to room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds. This will restore its soft texture and enhance the flavors.

FAQ

Many people wonder if substitutions can be made in this recipe. For a lighter option, you can replace the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. If pecans aren’t to your liking, walnuts are an excellent substitute. As for the glaze, a drizzle of maple syrup can serve as a quick and delicious alternative if you’re short on time. Another common question is whether this cake can be made gluten-free. The answer is yes—simply use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

Apple pecan cake with caramel glaze is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the flavors of fall. From the tender crumb of the cake to the rich drizzle of caramel, every bite is a testament to the joys of baking. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a comforting treat to enjoy at home, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its balance of sweetness, warmth, and texture makes it a recipe worth sharing—and one you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

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🍎🍁 Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze


  • Author: Stacy FIECHTER

Description

Moist, spiced apple pecan cake topped with a buttery caramel glaze. Perfect for cozy fall gatherings or a sweet indulgence any time!


Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups peeled and diced apples (e.g., Granny Smith)
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Caramel Glaze:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt


Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch or bundt pan with flour and butter.
2️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3️⃣ In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4️⃣ Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Fold in diced apples and chopped pecans.
5️⃣ Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly.
6️⃣ For the caramel glaze, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cream, bringing it to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.
7️⃣ Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cake and let it set before serving.

Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall in every bite! 🍂✨

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