The Best Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aromas of fall with this moist, spiced, and perfectly sweet Caramel Apple Spice Cake. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of apples, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a luscious caramel drizzle for a dessert that's pure autumn in every bite. Whether you're preparing for a holiday gathering, a cozy family dinner, or simply craving something sweet, this Caramel Apple Spice Cake is sure to be a hit. Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips to perfect this fall-inspired cake.

What is Caramel Apple Spice Cake?

Caramel Apple Spice Cake is a moist, flavorful cake that captures the essence of fall. The cake itself is packed with grated or diced apples, along with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The real magic happens when the cake is topped with a buttery caramel sauce that seeps into every bite, creating a decadent dessert that is both sweet and warmly spiced. Whether served as a simple snack cake or as a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion, this cake is guaranteed to please.

Ingredients List for Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Dry Ingredients:

1. 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cake.
2. 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
3. ½ teaspoon baking soda – Adds additional lift and helps the cake stay light.
4. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The warm spice that defines fall baking.
5. ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – For a slightly nutty, earthy warmth.
6. ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – Adds depth and richness to the spice mix.
7. ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

1. 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake.
2. ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor.
3. 1 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
4. 3 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and gives structure to the cake.
5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
6. ½ cup applesauce – Adds moisture and apple flavor without making the cake too heavy.
7. 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and grated or finely chopped – The star ingredient, providing sweetness and texture.

Caramel Sauce Ingredients:

1. ½ cup unsalted butter – The base for a rich, creamy caramel.
2. 1 cup brown sugar, packed – For that deep caramel flavor.
3. ¼ cup heavy cream – Creates a smooth, velvety texture in the caramel.
4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor depth to the caramel.
5. Pinch of salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances the caramel.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter alternative and coconut cream in place of the heavy cream for the caramel.
• Spiced Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference. For a bolder flavor, add ½ teaspoon ground ginger or allspice to the batter.
• Apple Variety: Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast, or opt for sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Gala for a milder flavor.
• Nut Add-ins: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
• Salted Caramel Topping: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel sauce for a sweet-salty twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. Cream the sugar and oil: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well-combined and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add applesauce: Stir the applesauce into the wet mixture. This will keep the cake moist and flavorful.
6. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or stirring by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
7. Fold in the apples: Gently fold in the grated or chopped apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Transfer to the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan(s), smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake the cake: Bake for 40-50 minutes (30-35 minutes if using round pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cake to remain moist.
3. Cool the cake: Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the caramel sauce.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Sauce

1. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the brown sugar: Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes, until the sugar begins to dissolve.
3. Add the cream: Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to combine. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the caramel thickens slightly.
4. Add vanilla and salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Poke holes in the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, use the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake. This allows the caramel sauce to seep into the cake, making it extra moist.
2. Pour the caramel: Slowly pour the caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Spread it evenly across the top with a spatula.
3. Let it set: Allow the cake to sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the caramel sauce before slicing and serving.

How to Cook Caramel Apple Spice Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the batter: The combination of grated apples, warm spices, and applesauce creates a moist, flavorful cake.
2. Bake and cool: Baking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking while retaining moisture.
3. Make the caramel sauce: A rich, buttery caramel is key to this recipe. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.
4. Assemble the cake: Poke holes in the cake so the caramel sauce seeps into every bite for maximum flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Not using fresh apples: Freshly grated or chopped apples are essential for the best texture and flavor.
3. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cake and use the toothpick test to ensure it's done. Overbaking can result in a dry cake.
4. Skipping the cooling process: Make sure the cake is fully cooled before adding the caramel sauce, as adding it while the cake is warm can cause the sauce to become too runny.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• How to Serve Caramel Apple Spice Cake: Serve warm or at room temperature. For an extra indulgent touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Presentation Ideas for Caramel Apple Spice Cake: Drizzle some extra caramel sauce on the plate before placing a slice of cake. Garnish with thin apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few crushed pecans or walnuts for added texture and visual appeal.

Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Tip: This cake is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld. Make it the day before and let it sit in the fridge overnight for a more intense flavor.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, it can last for up to a week, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake (without the caramel sauce) for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight and add the caramel sauce before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Make the cake a day ahead and add the caramel sauce before serving.

Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
A: Absolutely. If you're short on time, store-bought caramel sauce works just fine. However, homemade caramel adds an extra layer of flavor.

Q: What’s the best apple variety to use?
A: Granny Smith apples are often preferred for their tartness, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples also work well, depending on your taste.

Q: How do I prevent my cake from becoming dry?
A: Be careful not to overmix the batter and avoid overbaking. Adding applesauce and fresh apples helps keep the cake moist.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a decadent and cozy Caramel Apple Spice Cake that’s perfect for the fall season. With its rich spiced flavors, tender apples, and indulgent caramel sauce, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're enjoying it with a hot cup of coffee or serving it as a dessert for a holiday dinner, this cake will warm your heart and your taste buds. Happy baking!

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