Why Make This Recipe

Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet flavors of apples and pecans, topped with a rich caramel glaze. This cake is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night at home. It is moist, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a great choice for bakers of all skill levels. The combination of textures and tastes in this cake makes it really special.

How to Make Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 cup apples, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup caramel sauce

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples and pecans.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream.

How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Apple Pecan Cake is best served warm, with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce on top. For an extra treat, you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This adds creaminess that complements the cake perfectly. You can also sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.

How to Store Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

To store leftover Apple Pecan Cake, keep it covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it, where it will last for about a week. Make sure to reheat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy it warm again.

Tips to Make Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Make sure your butter is softened before creaming it; this helps create a light texture.
Use fresh apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work great in this recipe.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Variation

You can add different nuts like walnuts or use other fruits like peaches or pears instead of apples. For a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter.

FAQs

Q: Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of chopped apples?
A: Yes, you can substitute unsweetened applesauce for chopped apples. Use about 1 cup of applesauce for this recipe.

Q: Can I freeze the Apple Pecan Cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How can I make the cake more moist?
A: Ensure you do not overbake the cake, as this can dry it out. Also, adding a little extra buttermilk can help keep it moist.