Heavenly Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe

Crafting a delectable apple pecan cake with caramel glaze promises pure comfort and warmth on chilly afternoons.

Sweet autumn memories flood back with each tender crumb.

Pecans add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully against soft, spiced cake layers.

Fragrant cinnamon and brown sugar weave magic through every bite.

Seasonal ingredients combine effortlessly, creating a dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Drizzling golden caramel over this cake turns an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.

Bake this irresistible treat and watch smiles bloom around your table.

Why Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Shines

• Craft Comfort Quickly: Dive into a one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal kitchen effort.
• Crowd-Pleasing Magic: Perfect for family dinners, this casserole delivers rich, creamy flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making mealtime a breeze.
• Flexible Meal Solution: Adaptable for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to potlucks, this recipe scales easily and requires basic pantry staples.
• Hands-Off Cooking Delight: Simply layer ingredients, cover with foil, and let the oven do the work, giving you time to relax while a delicious meal comes together.

Ingredients for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

• All-Purpose Flour: The base that provides structure and texture to the cake.
• Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become light.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, sweet spice that complements the apples.
• Ground Nutmeg: Provides a subtle, aromatic flavor to the cake.

• Butter: Creates a rich, creamy base for the cake batter.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Apples, Diced: Bring natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• Pecans: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cake.

• Butter: Creates a rich, smooth base for the glaze.
• Brown Sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps create a smooth glaze consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the caramel glaze.

How to Bake Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Station

Set your oven to 350°F. Generously grease a 9-inch baking pan.

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg

Step 2: Create Creamy Butter Base

In a separate mixing bowl, whip butter and sugar until they become light and airy. Add eggs one by one, blending smoothly after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the butter blend.

• Freshly diced apples
• Chopped pecans

Ensure everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Transfer the batter into the prepared pan.

Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Let the cake rest and slightly cool.

Step 5: Craft Luxurious Caramel Glaze

In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat.

Pour in heavy cream and vanilla. Simmer and stir for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Slice and serve immediately for maximum deliciousness.

Tips for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

• Choose ripe, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in your cake.
• Toast pecans briefly in a dry skillet to enhance their nutty taste and add extra depth to the dessert.
• Let cake cool for 10-15 minutes before adding caramel glaze to prevent it from becoming too runny or soaking into the cake.
• Substitute gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert.
• Store cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Creative Twists on Apple Pecan Cake

• Rustic Skillet Cake: Bake the cake in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation, enhancing the caramelized edges and adding a homemade feel.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap wheat flour with almond or coconut flour to create a gluten-free alternative that maintains the cake's rich flavor and texture.
• Maple Pecan Upgrade: Replace caramel glaze with a maple-infused topping, using real maple syrup and toasted pecans for a woodsy, autumn-inspired finish.
• Spiced Apple Mini Cakes: Transform the recipe into individual mini cakes baked in muffin tins, perfect for portion control and elegant serving.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Pecan Cake

• Cozy Autumn Dessert Centerpiece: Place the warm cake on a rustic wooden board surrounded by whole apples and scattered pecans. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch that enhances the cake's golden-brown surface.
• Weekend Brunch Delight: Slice cake into elegant wedges and serve alongside freshly brewed coffee. Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to complement the caramel's rich sweetness.
• Gifting Comfort: Wrap individual cake slices in parchment paper tied with twine. Perfect for sharing with neighbors, friends, or as a thoughtful homemade gift that captures seasonal warmth.
• Holiday Potluck Star: Present cake on a decorative platter with extra caramel drizzle. Garnish with candied pecans and cinnamon sticks to create a festive dessert that will impress gathering guests.

Storage Tips for Apple Pecan Cake

• Store the apple pecan cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and preserve moisture.
• Wrap the completely cooled cake in two layers of plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring no air pockets that could cause freezer burn.
• Cut cake into individual portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw individual slices quickly at room temperature for convenient serving.
• Keep the cake at room temperature for 1-2 days in a covered cake stand or container with a tight-fitting lid. Ensure the space is cool and dry to maintain the cake's texture and prevent spoilage.

FAQs

• What type of apples work best for this cake?

Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity in the cake.

• Can I replace pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts are an excellent substitute and will provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cake.

• How do I know if the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake – if it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.

Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Magnificent apple pecan cake with caramel glaze showcases Southern baking traditions with complex layers of flavor. Warm spices and rich caramel complement tender apple chunks and crunchy pecans in this irresistible dessert you will savor to the last crumb.

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Ingredients

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• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and generously coat a 9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium mixing bowl to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and develops a light, airy texture.
4. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter mixture, beating thoroughly after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to prevent overmixing.
6. Gently fold diced apples and chopped pecans into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout.
7. Transfer batter to the prepared pan, spreading it smoothly and ensuring an even surface.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through cooking time. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center, which should emerge clean.
9. For the caramel glaze, melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
10. Slowly pour in heavy cream and vanilla, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
11. Remove cake from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle warm caramel glaze over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
12. Slice and serve the cake while still slightly warm for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

• Adjust spice levels by adding more cinnamon or nutmeg for a bolder flavor profile that enhances the apple and pecan combination.
• Toast pecans before adding to the batter to intensify their nutty flavor and create a deeper, more complex taste.
• Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour blend to make the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring the texture remains moist and tender.
• Use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or honey in the caramel glaze for a different depth of sweetness that complements the apple and pecan notes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 327 kcal
• Sugar: 21 g
• Sodium: 140 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 46 mg