As autumn air begins to weave through our kitchens, there’s a certain alchemy in the blend of apples and spices that transforms our homes into havens of comfort. This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze is a heartfelt nod to that cozy magic, merging juicy apple chunks and crunchy pecans into a beautifully spiced batter. Not only does this delightful dish bring a warm, inviting aroma that fills the room with memories of family gatherings, but it also showcases the ease of traditional home baking with its quick prep and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether enjoyed after a long day or as a centerpiece during a festive gathering, this cake promises to be a sweet escape that you’ll want to savor. Ready to learn how to make this golden delight? Let’s dive in!
Why is this cake a fall favorite?
Heartwarming aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen fills with a delightful mix of spices and sweetness, evoking the essence of autumn.
Irresistible texture: The moist, tender crumb combined with crunchy pecans and juicy apple bits creates a flavor experience like no other.
Quick to prepare: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this cake comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy days.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s for family dinners or potlucks, everyone will be lining up for a slice.
Versatile serving options: Pair it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a touch of spiced whipped cream for an elevated treat! This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze is a must-try that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the cake rises properly.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and richness; no direct substitution, but allspice could work for a similar flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg – Offers subtle earthy notes; use freshly grated for the best flavor.
- Ground Cloves – Introduces a bold, warm spice; could be omitted if unavailable.
- Unsalted Butter – Essential for a rich, tender crumb; can substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free options.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; brown sugar can be used for more moisture.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; eggs can be replaced with flax eggs for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cake’s flavor; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Apples (peeled and chopped) – Contributes moisture and sweetness; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are recommended.
- Pecans (chopped) – Adds a rich, nutty flavor; walnuts can be used as a substitute.
For the Caramel Glaze
- Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich base for caramel.
- Brown Sugar – Provides deep sweetness to the caramel; light or dark brown sugar works well.
- Heavy Cream – Enriches the glaze, making it silky; evaporated milk is a good alternative.
- Vanilla Extract (for glaze) – Rounds out the caramel flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) while you grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures the cake releases easily once baked. As the oven warms, gather all your ingredients so they’re ready for mixing.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. This step combines the leavening agent and spices, ensuring even flavor throughout your Apple Pecan Cake. Set the mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This aeration is crucial for a tender cake, creating a delightful texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The combination of eggs and vanilla infuses moisture and flavor into the Apple Pecan Cake.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, ready for the delicious chunks of fruit and nuts to be folded in next.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans
Gently fold in 2 cups of peeled, chopped apples and 1 cup of chopped pecans until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step is key to ensuring that every slice of this Apple Pecan Cake has that wonderful combination of flavors and textures that you crave.
Step 7: Pour and Smooth
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer. This helps ensure your cake bakes uniformly, developing that golden crust.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as it rises and turns a lovely golden brown; you’ll be greeted by an irresistible aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 9: Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the cake cools for about 10 minutes on a wire rack, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 cup of brown sugar and ¼ cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while it thickens, about 1–2 minutes, to form a rich glaze.
Step 10: Pour and Set
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Carefully pour the warm caramel glaze over the cooled Apple Pecan Cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing, so it adheres beautifully to the cake.
Step 11: Slice and Serve
Once the glaze has set, slice the Apple Pecan Cake into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This perfect fall dessert is ready to be enjoyed by family and friends!
What to Serve with Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
Enhance your cozy autumn experience with delectable pairings that complement the warm flavors of your homemade cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich, cool contrast to the warm cake, creating a satisfying flavor harmony.
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Spiced Whipped Cream: Drizzling homemade spiced whipped cream over each slice elevates it to a new level of indulgence, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a delightful contrast to the sweet cake, making each bite a burst of flavor.
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Coffee or Hot Apple Cider: A steaming cup of coffee or hot apple cider brings warmth to your dessert experience, perfectly pairing with the spices in the cake.
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Pecan Topped Brie: Add a savory touch with a warm brie cheese topped with spiced pecans, creating an irresistible sweet and savory contrast.
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Fall Fruit Salad: A mix of sliced pears, pomegranates, and citrus provides a refreshing balance to the rich cake and brightens up your dessert spread.
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Caramel Drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of each slice, enhancing the cake’s already glorious sweetness.
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Chai Latte: Sip on a warm chai latte, its spices marrying beautifully with the flavors of the cake for a cozy, comforting finish to your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its moist texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the cake for up to a week; make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste!
Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe to make it uniquely yours!
- Nut Variations: Experiment with walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for different flavors and textures. Each nut brings its own character to the cake, creating a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Apple Choices: Use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or a mix of tart and sweet apples to create varying flavor profiles. This is a wonderful way to celebrate the apple harvest in all its glory!
- Add Coconut: Sprinkle in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the apple and caramel. The added texture enhances the cake, making it even more irresistible.
- Oat Topping: Incorporate a sprinkle of oats on top before baking for added crunch and a heartier texture. This creates a delightful contrast with the moist cake and gooey glaze.
- Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ** nutmeg** to the glaze for an unexpected warmth that perfectly complements the cake. Each bite will embrace the essence of cozy fall flavors.
- Citrus Zest: Include a touch of orange or lemon zest in the batter to brighten the flavors. A hint of citrus will elevate your cake and make it feel even more refreshing.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out all-purpose flour with a blend of gluten-free flour for a friendlier version that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor. Versatility is key, especially during gatherings!
- Heat it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the batter for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. It’s a small change that creates a big impact!
Whether you want to use this recipe as a base for your creations or for a comforting dessert, these variations will surely enhance your apple pecan experience. While you’re here, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Salted Caramel Kentucky for another way to enjoy the warmth of caramel!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix together the dry ingredients and keep them stored in an airtight container, while the wet ingredients can be whisked together and refrigerated. To prevent browning, toss the chopped apples in a little lemon juice before mixing them with the batter. When you’re ready to bake, stir in the apples and pecans, pour the batter into the baking dish, and pop it in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, fresh slices with a drizzle of that luscious caramel glaze, making your busy days feel just a little sweeter!
Expert Tips for Apple Pecan Cake
Choose the Right Apples: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain texture; avoid overly soft varieties that can make the cake mushy.
Don’t Overmix: Fold the batter gently after adding dry ingredients to avoid a dense cake. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
Glaze Timing: Let the cake cool slightly before pouring the warm caramel glaze to prevent it from soaking in too quickly, ensuring a lovely finish on your Apple Pecan Cake.
Fresh Spices Matter: For the best flavor, opt for freshly grated nutmeg and quality ground spices. They add a warm, aromatic punch that truly elevates the dish!
Storage Solutions: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze completely wrapped.
Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the best flavor in the cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well and offer a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the overall flavor of your Apple Pecan Cake. Avoid overly soft apples, as they can make the cake mushy.
How can I store the Apple Pecan Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring it’s well sealed to maintain its moistness.
Is it possible to freeze the cake? If so, how?
Yes, absolutely! For freezing, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This method protects it from freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and for that fresh-baked taste, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
Very good question! Dense cakes often result from overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined, leaving some lumps in the batter. This gentle approach helps create a light, airy texture.
Can I make any substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Additionally, replace the large eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for a vegan option. Always feel free to adjust the ingredients to accommodate any dietary needs!
How long can the caramel glaze be stored?
Once prepared, the caramel glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring to restore its silky texture before pouring over your cake.
Decadent Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze for Fall Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined.
- Fold in chopped apples and pecans until evenly distributed.
- Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add brown sugar and cream, bringing mixture to a gentle boil and stirring continuously.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, then pour over cake and allow to set.
- Slice and serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
