Indulge in the warm embrace of fall flavors with this Spiced Apple Cake with Creamy Caramel Frosting. Bursting with the sweetness of apples, the richness of caramel, and a hint of spice, this dessert will transport you to a cozy autumn day with every bite. The velvety caramel frosting paired with a moist apple cake ensures this recipe is not just a dessert but a celebration of the season. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, this cake will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup vegetable or canola oil
- ¾ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¾ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
For the Creamy Caramel Frosting:
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 18 oz unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¾ tsp salt
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Apple Garnish:
- 3-4 small apples
- 7 oz soft caramels
- 1 ½ tsp heavy cream or water
- Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
Instructions
Preparing the Cake:
- Set the Stage: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them lightly and lining them with parchment paper to ensure the cakes come out smoothly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix the Liquid Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, blend the brown sugar, oil, applesauce, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth. Add the eggs individually, stirring well after each one.
- Combine the Dry and Wet Mixtures: Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the diced apple for a touch of freshness.
- Bake the Cakes: Pour the batter into the prepared pans, ensuring an even distribution. Place them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to rest in the pans for 10 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Creamy Caramel Frosting:
- Cook the Caramel Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, buttermilk, 6 oz of butter, and baking soda. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a caramel color (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
- Blend the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the remaining butter until creamy. Gradually add the cooled caramel mixture, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake:
- Layer and Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Repeat with the remaining layers, then frost the sides and top of the cake. Smooth the frosting with an offset spatula.
Preparing the Apple Garnish:
- Melt the Caramel: In a small saucepan, melt the soft caramels with the heavy cream or water over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Coat the Apples: Carefully insert a stick into each apple, then dip them into the warm, melted caramel, giving them a gentle swirl to ensure they’re fully covered. Let any extra caramel drip off before placing them on parchment paper to set and harden.
Decorate and Serve:
- Finish with Flair: Arrange the caramel-dipped apples on top of the cake for a stunning autumnal centerpiece. Slice and serve to enjoy the perfect balance of spiced cake, creamy caramel frosting, and a touch of apple charm.
Conclusion
This Spiced Apple Cake with Creamy Caramel Frosting is a delightful homage to fall’s best flavors. With its moist cake, decadent frosting, and charming garnish, it’s sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering. Try it today and savor the magic of autumn in every bite!
