There's nothing like the sweet aroma of Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze filling the kitchen on a cool autumn day. This cozy, fall-inspired dessert combines tender chunks of apple, crunchy pecans, and a rich caramel glaze that drips down the sides, creating a perfect mix of textures and flavors.

I first made this cake on a whim, wanting something that captured the warmth of apple pie but in a cake form. Now, it's one of my go-to desserts for gatherings and holidays, especially when I want something impressive yet easy to make. Let's dive into the reasons you'll love this irresistible cake.

Why You'll Love This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Prepare to fall in love with a cake that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. This Apple Pecan Cake has all the elements of a classic comfort dessert, with a few standout qualities that make it truly special.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of steps, you’ll have a dessert that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, it comes together quickly, so you can spend more time enjoying it with family and friends.

The flavors are perfectly balanced. The sweet-tart apples and toasty pecans create a wonderful contrast to the rich, buttery caramel glaze. It’s not overly sweet, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

This cake is also super versatile! It can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed as a coffee cake for brunch. The leftovers (if you have any) stay moist for days, making it a great make-ahead treat.

Finally, the caramel glaze is a showstopper. It’s easy to make and takes this cake to the next level, adding a gooey, indulgent finish that’s both beautiful and delicious.

Ingredients Notes

Every ingredient in this Apple Pecan Cake plays a part in creating a perfectly moist and flavorful dessert. Here’s a closer look at what makes each element shine.

Apples: The star ingredient here! I recommend using a crisp, tart apple variety like Granny Smith. These hold their shape during baking and add a pleasant contrast to the sweet caramel glaze. If you prefer a sweeter apple, Honeycrisp or Fuji also work beautifully.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and warm, nutty flavor. You can chop them coarsely for larger bites or finely if you want the nuts to blend seamlessly into the cake. If you're out of pecans, walnuts make a great substitute.
Brown Sugar: This gives the cake a deep, caramel-like flavor that white sugar just can't match. It also contributes to the cake’s moist texture, balancing perfectly with the apples.
Spices: A combination of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a cozy warmth that pairs perfectly with apples and pecans. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking or even add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra depth.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the cake and helps to create a tender crumb. For the glaze, using butter is essential to achieve that smooth, glossy finish that coats the cake beautifully.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a bundt pan or a 9x13-inch baking pan, as well as a saucepan for making the caramel glaze.

How To Make This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Making this cake is a simple, step-by-step process that anyone can follow. Here’s how to bring it all together:

Prepare the Apples and Pecans: Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples. Aim for bite-sized pieces so they blend nicely into the batter. Toast your pecans lightly in a skillet or in the oven; this brings out their full, rich flavor.
Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, and a splash of vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in the apples and pecans.
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should spring back slightly when touched.
Make the Caramel Glaze: While the cake cools slightly, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and add a pinch of salt and vanilla. This glaze will thicken as it cools slightly, making it perfect for drizzling.
Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the caramel glaze generously over the top. The glaze will slowly cascade down the sides, soaking into the cake and adding an extra layer of sweetness.

This cake takes about an hour from start to finish, including bake time. The result is a beautifully moist cake with warm, inviting flavors and a showstopping caramel finish.

Storage Options

Storing this Apple Pecan Cake is easy, and it stays fresh for several days. Here’s how to keep it tasting delicious:

Room Temperature: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh on the counter for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: If you’d like to keep it longer, store the cake in the fridge for up to 5 days. The caramel glaze may firm up slightly, so let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm up in the microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

For reheating, a few seconds in the microwave softens the cake and glaze nicely, making each bite as delightful as the day it was baked.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts of this Apple Pecan Cake is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun twists to make it your own:

Add More Spices: Try adding a teaspoon of ginger or a pinch of cloves to bring out more spice and warmth. These go wonderfully with the apples and nuts.
Swap the Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, feel free to use walnuts or even hazelnuts. Each adds a unique flavor and texture that complements the cake beautifully.
Different Apples: While Granny Smith apples are perfect for tartness, a sweeter apple like Gala or Honeycrisp will add a different layer of sweetness and flavor.
Try a Cream Cheese Glaze: For a tangy twist, skip the caramel and make a cream cheese glaze by combining softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk or cream. This pairs beautifully with the apple and nut flavors.
Mini Bundt Cakes: If you’re baking for a crowd, divide the batter into mini bundt cake molds. These adorable, single-serving cakes make a great option for parties or brunch.

With a recipe this versatile, don’t be afraid to make it your own. Whether you follow the original or get creative, this cake is sure to be a hit!

Enjoy your baking, and get ready to serve up slices of this cozy, caramel-glazed delight!