Sometimes, the best recipes are the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly. That’s exactly how this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze became a beloved family favorite. With its perfect blend of tart apples, crunchy pecans, and a rich caramel glaze, this cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a comforting, homemade treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this cake is sure to impress everyone who takes a bite.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil – Helps keep the cake moist and tender.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness.
- 4 large eggs – Provide structure and richness to the cake.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Provides a rich, aromatic flavor.
- 3 1/2 cups diced Granny Smith apples (about 3-4 apples) – Brings tartness and moisture to the cake.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
For the Caramel Glaze:
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter – Forms the base for a rich and buttery glaze.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the glaze.
- 1/2 cup milk – Gives the glaze the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the sweetness with a warm flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and rises properly, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth. The mixture should become slightly thick and pale, showing that the eggs and sugar are well incorporated.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Sifting the dry ingredients helps to keep the mixture light and ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients throughout the batter.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as overmixing can result in a dense cake. Once combined, stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to infuse the batter with flavor.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Pecans
Gently fold in:
- 3 1/2 cups diced Granny Smith apples
- 1 cup chopped pecans
These ingredients provide moisture, flavor, and crunch. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Prepare the Pan
Grease and flour a tube pan or two 9-inch cake pans thoroughly to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), spreading it out evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. After 50 minutes, check the cake’s doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. If you’re using cake pans, check at 50 minutes since they may bake faster than a tube pan.
Step 8: Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt:
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
Stir in:
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue stirring for about 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 9: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, transfer it to a wire rack. Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak in and create a delicious, sweet layer. Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Ice Cream: A slice of this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a truly indulgent treat.
- Perfect for Fall: This cake’s rich flavors and comforting texture make it an excellent choice for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or any cozy occasion.
- As a Coffee Cake: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee for a delightful start to your day.
Tips for the Best Apple Pecan Cake:
- Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe because their tartness provides a perfect balance to the sweetness of the cake and the glaze.
- Don’t Skip the Glaze: The caramel glaze is what makes this cake truly special. It adds a rich, buttery sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
- Check for Doneness Early: If you’re using cake pans, check for doneness at around 50 minutes. Pans tend to bake faster than tube pans, and you want to avoid overbaking the cake.
Why This Cake is So Special
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience. The combination of tart apples and crunchy pecans creates a flavorful and moist cake, while the buttery caramel glaze takes it to another level of sweetness. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert for a family dinner or something special to bring to a gathering. And once you taste it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a family favorite that you’ll make again and again.
Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this Apple Pecan Cake—the perfect blend of sweetness, tartness, and crunch!