If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, unforgettable dessert, then the Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. This cake beautifully marries tender apple chunks and crunchy pecans in every bite, all wrapped up in a warmly spiced batter. Then it gets an indulgent finale with a luscious caramel glaze that drizzles over the top, adding just the right touch of decadence. Honestly, it’s like fall on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe is a breeze since you only need simple, pantry-friendly staples that combine wonderfully to create layers of texture and flavor. Every ingredient plays a role, whether it’s the spices giving warmth, the apples lending moisture and freshness, or pecans providing that delightful crunch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake ensuring a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly and stay light.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds a classic warmth that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Brings a subtle depth of spice for extra coziness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering it.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a rich caramel note to the batter.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft.
- 3 large eggs: Binds all ingredients while adding richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with its sweet, aromatic touch.
- 3 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite): The star ingredient, providing both texture and tartness.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for glaze): Creates a creamy, decadent caramel sauce.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for glaze): Infuses the glaze with deep sweetness.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Balances the glaze’s texture for smooth pouring.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Rounds out the caramel’s flavor.
- Pinch of salt (for glaze): Elevates the sweetness with just a hint of savory contrast.
How to Make Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
First things first, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. These dry ingredients are your flavor foundation, bringing the perfect balance of spice and texture to your cake. Sifting them will also help you avoid any lumps and keep your batter smooth.
Step 2: Combine Sugars, Oil, and Eggs
In a separate large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until fully blended. This mixture creates a moist base that also loads your batter with sweetness. Then beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding the vanilla extract last to infuse that unmistakable warm aroma.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Apples
Gradually fold your dry mixture into the wet ingredients, just until combined—overmixing can make the cake tough. Once your batter is smooth, gently fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans to distribute those bursts of tartness and crunch evenly throughout.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined pan, spreading it evenly. Since the recipe doesn’t specify the cook time, bake it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. That golden crust and those bubbling apple pieces are signals your cake is ready.
Step 5: Make the Caramel Glaze
While your cake cools slightly, start on the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then stir in brown sugar and salt. Let it bubble gently for a few minutes until thickened, then remove from heat and whisk in heavy cream and vanilla extract. This luscious glaze will be the irresistible finishing touch.
Step 6: Glaze the Cake
Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the cake while it’s still slightly warm, so it seeps into the surface and adds glossy, sweet richness. Let the cake rest until the glaze sets—patience here means maximum flavor in every forkful.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
You can elevate this cake even further by sprinkling chopped toasted pecans on top just before serving to boost the nutty crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds an elegant, festive touch that’s perfect for gatherings.
Side Dishes
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe pairs beautifully with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a sophisticated brunch, serve alongside a warm spiced cider or a robust cup of coffee to complement the cake’s sweet and nutty notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, slice the cake into mini squares and serve on decorative plates with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. Or, layer pieces with cream cheese frosting and extra chopped apples for a playful twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, the fridge is a good option to keep the glaze from melting or the cake from becoming too moist.
Freezing
This cake freezes wonderfully! Slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving to revive that freshly baked feel.
Reheating
To enjoy your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe warm, microwave a slice for about 20 seconds or heat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back the gooey texture of the glaze and softens the cake like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this cake?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a lovely tartness and hold their shape well, you can use any apple variety you like. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will make the cake sweeter overall.
Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?
Yes! You can simply omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds if you want a similar crunch without the nuts. The cake will still be delicious.
Can I prepare the caramel glaze ahead of time?
It’s best to make the caramel glaze fresh to get that perfectly smooth, pourable consistency. However, you can store leftover glaze in the fridge for up to a week and gently reheat it before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the glaze?
You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, but the glaze will be a bit less rich and thick. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works beautifully too!
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. The top should also be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe feels like a warm hug in dessert form, balancing juicy fruit, crunchy nuts, and a silky sauce all at once. It’s one of those cakes that’s perfect for holiday celebrations, family dinners, or any time you want to treat yourself with a truly comforting slice of deliciousness. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!
Print
Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze blends tender, spiced apple-infused cake with crunchy pecans and a rich, buttery caramel topping. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a comforting dessert, it combines the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla with a luscious caramel glaze to create an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 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 (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
- 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
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Cream Sugars and Oil: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the sugar and oil mixture, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Apples and Pecans: Gently fold the peeled and diced apples along with the chopped pecans into the batter ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Caramel Glaze: While the cake is baking, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for about 2 minutes until it dissolves and becomes bubbly.
- Add Cream, Vanilla, and Salt: Carefully stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is out of the oven and slightly cooled (about 10 minutes), evenly pour the warm caramel glaze over the top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely so the glaze can set before slicing into 12 servings and serving.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart, firm texture that holds well during baking.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
- The caramel glaze can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For extra moisture, you can add 1/4 cup of applesauce to the batter.
