This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a moist, flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the rich, nutty crunch of pecans.
Topped with a decadent caramel glaze, it’s the perfect treat for fall or any time you’re craving something comforting and indulgent.
The soft, spiced cake is complemented by the warmth of cinnamon, and the glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Ideal for a family gathering, holiday dessert table, or simply when you want to impress your guests with a homemade treat.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup buttermilk
For the caramel glaze:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Instructions:
For the cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
Fold in the chopped apples and pecans.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the caramel glaze:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze has thickened.
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
To assemble:
Once the cake has cooled, pour the caramel glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the glaze for added texture.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips:
Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
Pecans: Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the batter to enhance their flavor.
Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is the ultimate dessert for those who love a combination of warm spices, crunchy nuts, and rich, gooey caramel. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
How to Store Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze
Room Temperature:
Once the cake has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep the cake moist and fresh for up to 3 days.
Make sure the caramel glaze is set before covering the cake to prevent it from sticking to the lid.
Refrigeration:
If you want to keep the cake fresh for a longer period, refrigerate it in an airtight container. It will last up to 5-7 days in the fridge.
You may want to let the cake come to room temperature before serving, as it will have the best flavor and texture that way.
Freezing:
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
If freezing individual slices, wrap each piece separately for easier portioning later.
Caramel Glaze:
If you have leftover caramel glaze, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat it gently before using it again.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze for days to come!
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze
1. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can easily swap pecans with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Choose the nut that best fits your taste or what you have on hand!
2. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, while tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for baking, you can also use sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may alter the overall sweetness of the cake.
3. Can I make this cake without the caramel glaze?
Yes, the cake itself is delicious on its own, but the caramel glaze adds an extra level of richness. If you prefer, you can skip the glaze or replace it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum, or add it separately to help with texture.
5. How can I make this cake dairy-free?
To make the cake dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter or coconut oil, and use a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) in place of buttermilk. You can also use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative for the caramel glaze.
6. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap the entire cake or individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
7. How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 5-7 days. The caramel glaze may soften slightly when refrigerated, but it will still taste amazing.
8. Can I add more spices to the cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cloves, ginger, or allspice for a more complex flavor. Just be cautious not to overpower the apples and pecans.
9. How do I prevent the cake from being too dry?
To avoid a dry cake, be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can cause the cake to become dense. Also, avoid overbaking the cake—check it with a toothpick in the center around 30 minutes to ensure it comes out clean but not overdone.
These frequently asked questions should help you navigate making the Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze, ensuring you get perfect results every time!