Caramel Apple Cake

The Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of fall. With its soft and moist apple base, this cake is topped with a luscious caramel buttercream and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this cake not only pleases the palate but also brings warmth and comfort to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apples and caramel creates a sweet and savory profile that excites the taste buds.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the addition of sour cream, this cake remains tender and moist, making each bite a delight.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether it’s a birthday party or a holiday feast, this Caramel Apple Cake fits perfectly into any event.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is straightforward, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or extra spices to personalize your cake further.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Caramel Apple Cake, having the right tools on hand can make a significant difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly and achieves the right texture without much effort.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls, ensuring no ingredients are left behind for a uniform batter.

Ingredients

For the Caramel Sauce

• 90 g granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp water
• 25 g butter
• 100 g heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

For the Cake

• 240 g all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground all spice
• 100 g granulated sugar
• 100 g dark brown sugar
• 200 g apples (grated)
• 110 g vegetable oil (room temperature)
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 140 g sour cream (14-18% room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Buttercream Frosting

• 100 g butter (room temperature)
• 165 g powdered sugar
• 2-3 tsp caramel
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Caramel Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Begin by placing 90 g of granulated sugar and 1 tbsp of water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until combined, then allow it to cook undisturbed until it turns golden brown. Once achieved, remove from heat and carefully stir in 25 g of butter until melted. Gradually whisk in 100 g of heavy cream along with a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients for the Cake

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 240 g of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground all spice. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine 100 g granulated sugar with 100 g dark brown sugar. Add in grated apples (200 g), followed by 110 g vegetable oil, 2 eggs, and 140 g sour cream. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Use an electric mixer on low speed until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between both pans. Bake for approximately 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make Buttercream Frosting

In a bowl, beat together room temperature butter (100 g) with powdered sugar (165 g) until creamy. Add in caramel (2-3 tsp) and vanilla extract (1 tsp), mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread buttercream frosting generously on top before adding the second layer. Finish by frosting the top and sides with any remaining buttercream.

Enjoy your deliciously baked Caramel Apple Cake!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cake

Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice on a cozy evening, these suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream perfectly complements the rich flavors of the cake, adding an airy texture.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm spiced notes of the cake, creating a delicious contrast.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• For those who love caramel, an additional drizzle enhances the sweetness and richness of each bite.

Topped with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully.

Served Warm

• Enjoying the cake warm makes it even more comforting and brings out the spices in a delightful way.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or tea balances the sweetness of the cake, making for a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Caramel Apple Cake

To achieve the best results with your Caramel Apple Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and improves the cake’s texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing just until combined prevents overdeveloping gluten, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely before applying caramel buttercream to prevent melting and ensure a smooth finish.
• Add More Apples: For extra moisture and flavor, consider incorporating finely grated apples beyond what’s called for in the recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Apple Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Caramel Apple Cake can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Spiced Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of spiced pumpkin soup adds seasonal flavors that complement the apple and spice notes in the cake.
2. Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and earthy flavors, balancing out dessert perfectly.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer savory bites that pair nicely with sweet desserts like caramel apple cake.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with citrus notes can cleanse the palate while enhancing fruity elements in the cake.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy herbed rice pilaf introduces savory complexity that contrasts beautifully with dessert’s sweetness.
7. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash brings natural sweetness but maintains its savory character alongside dessert.
8. Baked Brie: Warm baked brie topped with nuts appeals as an indulgent appetizer that pairs well with sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Caramel Apple Cake can be tricky. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the batter’s consistency. Ensure eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can create a dense cake instead of a light texture. Mix just until combined for a fluffy result.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use kitchen scales for precision rather than relying solely on cups.
• Rushing Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool properly is essential for optimal flavor and texture. Patience is key; don’t rush to frost while it’s still warm.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Caramel Apple Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Caramel Apple Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Caramel Apple Cake:

What makes this Caramel Apple Cake so moist?

The combination of grated apples and sour cream adds moisture, creating a soft texture that enhances the flavor profile.

Can I customize the Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or substitute different spices like nutmeg or ginger for unique flavors.

How do I make the caramel sauce?

You can make it by melting sugar with water until it turns golden brown, then adding butter and cream while stirring continuously.

How should I serve Caramel Apple Cake?

This cake is delicious on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with pears or peaches as alternatives that pair well with caramel and spices.

Final Thoughts

The Caramel Apple Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. With its moist texture and rich caramel flavor, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings!