Delight in the flavors of autumn with this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze recipe. It’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply enjoying at home. The combination of fresh Granny Smith apples and crunchy pecans adds a unique texture, while the homemade caramel glaze elevates this dessert to a new level of indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet apples and nutty pecans creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and delicious.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just as a delightful afternoon treat with coffee or tea.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up this cake in no time.
- Homemade Caramel Glaze: The rich caramel sauce adds an extra layer of decadence that makes each slice unforgettable.
- Crowd Pleaser: This cake serves 12, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready makes the process enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter for a fluffy texture.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Ingredients
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)
- 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
How to Make Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease the 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking oil. This will prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Cinnamon
4. Salt
Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together:
1. Cooking oil
2. Granulated sugar
3. Eggs
4. Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 6: Add Apples and Pecans
Fold in:
1. Chopped Granny Smith apples
2. Chopped pecans
Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare Caramel Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Whole milk
Bring to a boil while stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Step 9: Add Vanilla to Glaze
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the cooled cake.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once your cake has cooled completely, pour on the caramel glaze and cut into slices. Enjoy this delightful dessert with family and friends!
How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice for a light and airy contrast to the rich cake.
Serve Warm with Ice Cream
- Enjoy a warm slice of cake topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce
- For those who love sweetness, drizzle additional homemade caramel sauce over the cake before serving for extra flavor.
Garnish with Fresh Apples and Pecans
- Top each slice with thin apple slices and chopped pecans to add a fresh crunch and visual appeal.
Accompany with Hot Beverages
- Serve alongside hot coffee, tea, or cider for a cozy autumn-inspired dessert experience.
How to Perfect Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
To ensure your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Granny Smith apples will provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid old or soft apples that may affect the cake’s quality.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when fully baked. This ensures your cake is moist but not undercooked.
Allow Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from breaking apart.
Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Pecan Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the flavors beautifully.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices complement the apple and pecan notes perfectly.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These add an extra layer of sweetness and texture alongside the cake.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the flavors in the cake.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to contrast with the sweet elements of the dessert.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites of rich cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect your final product. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the apple prep: Not peeling and finely chopping the apples can lead to uneven texture. Always prepare your apples as directed for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Inaccurate measurements: Using incorrect measurements of flour or sugar can ruin the balance of flavors. Always measure carefully with proper tools.
- Neglecting to check oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can lead to undercooked or overbaked cake. Use an oven thermometer for precise baking.
- Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s still hot can cause it to crumble. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if storing multiple pieces.
Freezing Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it for about 5 minutes, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji, but Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
How do I ensure my caramel glaze is smooth?
To achieve a smooth caramel glaze, cook over low heat and stir continuously until fully combined. Avoid high heat as it can cause burning.
Can I make this Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup for best results.
What can I substitute for pecans in this recipe?
You can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. Both will add their unique flavors and textures to the cake.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is not only a delicious dessert but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding spices like nutmeg or including raisins for added texture. Enjoy this autumn-inspired treat with friends and family!
Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. Bursting with fresh Granny Smith apples and crunchy pecans, this moist cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. The rich, homemade caramel glaze adds an irresistible finishing touch, making each slice a sweet escape into the flavors of fall. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Ingredients
- 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)
- 1 cup pecans (finely chopped)
- ¾ cups unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix cooking oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in chopped apples and pecans.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the glaze, melt butter, brown sugar, and milk in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth. Stir in vanilla.
- Drizzle glaze over the cooled cake before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg