Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

If you’re looking for a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall, this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is just the ticket! This cake is a beloved recipe in my home, perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something sweet but not overly indulgent. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples and crunchy pecans creates a deliciously moist cake that everyone will adore.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just because you deserve a treat, this cake is sure to be a hit. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it has a special place in my heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy this cake, making it perfect for any age group.
• Make-ahead option: Bake it ahead of time! It stays fresh and delicious for days, so you can savor it throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of apples and pecans paired with caramel makes each slice a little piece of heaven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze:

For the Cake

• 1½ cups of cooking oil
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3½ cups Granny Smith apples (peeled and finely chopped; approximately 3-4 apples)
• 1 cup pecans (finely chopped)

For the Caramel Glaze

• ¾ cups unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks)
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add chocolate chips: Fold in some dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds to give the cake a unique twist.
• Use other fruits: Substitute pears or even berries if you’re feeling adventurous—each fruit brings its own character to the cake!
• Make it gluten-free: Use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with cooking spray or butter. This step ensures that your cakes come out perfectly without sticking—and nobody likes a cake that falls apart!

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps ensure an even distribution throughout the batter, which results in consistent flavor and texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the cooking oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture becomes the base of your batter—creamy and sweet!

Step 4: Blend It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into your wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake tender and fluffy! Then fold in those delicious chopped apples and pecans gently—this adds texture and bursts of flavor.

Step 5: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen while they bake is simply irresistible!

Step 6: Make the Caramel Glaze

While your cakes cool down slightly, prepare the caramel glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together unsalted butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Stir in whole milk and vanilla extract. Let it simmer gently; this will create that luscious glaze we all love!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, remove your cakes from their pans. Stack them with caramel glaze poured generously between layers as well as on top. Don’t forget to let some drizzle down the sides for that beautiful presentation!

With each slice of this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze, I hope you feel all the warmth and joy that comes from sharing good food with good friends. Enjoy every last crumb!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Baking can be a delightful journey, and these tips will ensure your Apple Pecan Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apples – Opting for fresh Granny Smith apples not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake and glaze.

• Chop pecans finely – Finely chopped pecans distribute more evenly throughout the batter, giving every bite a perfect crunch and ensuring their flavor shines through without overwhelming the cake’s texture.

• Check for doneness – Every oven is different! To make sure your cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Let it cool completely – Allowing the cake to cool before adding the caramel glaze prevents it from melting away and ensures that each slice looks beautiful when served.

• Make extra glaze – If you love caramel (who doesn’t?), consider doubling the caramel glaze recipe to drizzle over individual slices or serve on the side for guests to enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Presenting your Apple Pecan Cake beautifully can make all the difference during dessert time. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a silky texture and complements the rich flavors of the cake.

• Chopped fresh apples – Scatter some finely chopped fresh apples on top for an eye-catching finish and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – The classic pairing! Creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with warm cake, making every bite irresistible.

• Coffee or chai tea – A warm beverage like coffee or spiced chai tea enhances the cozy flavors of fall, creating a comforting dessert experience.

• Mixed berry compote – A light mixed berry compote provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake while adding vibrant color to your plate.

• Simple green salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the sweetness of dessert, making for a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze! It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply treating yourself. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is perfect for meal prep! Whether you want to enjoy it throughout the week or share it with friends, it holds up beautifully. Here’s how to store your delightful creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake. It can last up to a week in the fridge.
• Keep the caramel glaze separate until ready to serve to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your bags with the date!
• To freeze the caramel glaze, pour it into an ice cube tray or a small container and freeze until solid.

Reheating

• Allow frozen slices to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, add an additional 10-15 seconds in the microwave.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious dessert!

Can I use other types of apples for the Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with sweetness, you can use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter cake.

How long does the Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze stay fresh?

When stored properly, this cake can stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days, or up to a week if refrigerated. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Can I make this Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze without pecans?

Yes! You can omit pecans if you prefer or substitute them with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Alternatively, you could replace them with chocolate chips for a different twist!

What if I don’t have light brown sugar for the caramel glaze?

If you’re out of light brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar) to mimic that rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate autumn flavors and create sweet memories with loved ones. Enjoy making this delightful treat and don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures with me. Happy baking!