Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a delightful dessert that brings together the warm flavors of autumn. The combination of tart apples, crunchy pecans, and a rich caramel glaze makes this cake a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply want a delicious dessert to enjoy at home, this cake is sure to impress. The moist cake is filled with chunks of apples and pecans, and the caramel glaze adds a sweet finish that makes every bite irresistible.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is not just another dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. You will love making this recipe because it’s simple yet impressive, requiring basic baking skills and ingredients. The cake itself is incredibly moist, thanks to the juicy apples, and the pecans add a delightful crunch. The caramel glaze is the cherry on top, providing a sweet, buttery finish that perfectly complements the cake. Plus, this cake is versatile enough to be served at casual get-togethers or more formal occasions.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Caramel Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions & Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Apples and Pecans: Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Caramel Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the glaze cool slightly.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cooled cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let the glaze set before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approx. 12 servings):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 35g
Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans for a nut-free version.
- Spiced Up: Add more spices like ground ginger or cloves for a spicier cake.
- Fruit Mix: Substitute half of the apples with pears for a mixed fruit cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple? Yes, you can use any firm, tart apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! The cake can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature. Add the glaze just before serving.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Apples: Dice the apples uniformly to ensure even baking.
- Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to achieve a smooth and creamy batter.
- Glaze: Don’t let the glaze cool completely before pouring it over the cake, as it will thicken and become harder to spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze as a delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also perfect with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, garnish with extra chopped pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
