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Caramel Apple Cake

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of sweet caramel and crisp apples. This Caramel Apple Cake brings those classic flavors together in one irresistibly moist and flavorful dessert that feels like autumn in every bite. Whether you're baking for a family gathering, holiday celebration, potluck, or simply craving a cozy homemade treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Fresh apples add natural sweetness and moisture, while a rich caramel glaze creates a decadent finish that transforms a simple cake into a bakery-worthy dessert. The warm spices, tender crumb, and buttery caramel topping make it a favorite recipe throughout the fall season, though it's delicious enough to enjoy year-round. One of the best things about this homemade caramel apple cake is its versatility. You can customize it with nuts, spices, or even dietary-friendly substitutions to suit your preferences. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make with everyday pantry ingredients.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¾ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups peeled and diced apples Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • For the Caramel Glaze
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts
  • ¼ teaspoon cloves
  • ½ cup raisins

Equipment

  • You'll need the following kitchen tools:
  • 9-inch round cake pan or 9x13 baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Electric mixer (optional)
  • Cooling rack
  • Small saucepan
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Oven
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour your baking pan.
  3. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  5. Flour
  6. Baking powder
  7. Baking soda
  8. Cinnamon
  9. Nutmeg
  10. Salt
  11. Set aside.
  12. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
  13. In a large bowl, whisk together:
  14. Granulated sugar
  15. Brown sugar
  16. Vegetable oil
  17. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
  18. Step 4: Create the Batter
  19. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
  20. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and moist.
  21. Step 5: Fold in Apples
  22. Gently fold the diced apples into the batter. If using nuts or raisins, add them now.
  23. The fresh apples create pockets of moisture and flavor throughout the cake.
  24. Step 6: Bake
  25. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  26. Bake for 40–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  27. Step 7: Cool
  28. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
  29. Step 8: Make the Caramel Glaze
  30. While the cake cools:
  31. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  32. Add brown sugar and stir continuously.
  33. Pour in heavy cream.
  34. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  35. Remove from heat.
  36. Stir in vanilla and salt.
  37. Step 9: Glaze the Cake
  38. Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cooled cake.
  39. Allow it to set for 10–15 minutes before serving.
  40. Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
  41. Slice and enjoy this moist caramel apple cake with your favorite beverage.