Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about the first bite of a freshly baked dessert that captures the essence of fall. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze, a delightful treat that fuses the cozy flavors of autumn with the sweetness of homemade love. This easy baking venture offers a warm, tender cake brimming with juicy apple chunks and satisfying pecans, making it perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening at home. Plus, the luscious caramel glaze elevates each slice into a slice of pure bliss. Are you ready to indulge in a slice of this seasonal delight? Let’s dive in! Why is This Cake a Fall Favorite? Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and crunchy pecans meld beautifully with tender apples in a spiced batter, creating a cake that’s bursting with flavor. All-in-One Dessert: With its caramel glaze, this cake serves as a complete dessert, making it an easy answer for any gathering or holiday celebration. Quick and Simple: You don’t need to be a baking pro to whip this up; it’s easy enough for beginners yet deliciously impressive! Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as is with a cup of coffee, everyone will be reaching for seconds! Versatile Enjoyment: Feel free to experiment with various apple types or even swap in walnuts, ensuring every bite is a delightful surprise. Dive into this Apple Iced Tea for a refreshing drink pairing or check out the Savory Slow Cooker options for a complete meal plan! Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Ingredients For the Cake All-purpose flour – Provides structure, essential for a soft, tender crumb. Baking soda – Helps the cake rise and reacts with acids in the batter for fluffiness. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors. Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness, creating a tantalizing aroma. Ground nutmeg – Introduces earthy sweetness that complements other spices. Ground cloves – Offers a bold, warm spice that adds depth. Unsalted butter – Forms a creamy base contributing to a rich texture; use at room temperature. Granulated sugar – The primary sweetener that aids in creating a fluffy batter. Large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture, contributing to the cake’s rise. Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor with a touch of sweetness. Apples (peeled and chopped) – Adds moisture and fruity sweetness; use firm varieties like Granny Smith. Pecans (chopped) – Provides delightful crunch and nutty richness; toast for an extra flavor boost. For the Caramel Glaze Unsalted butter – Forms the base for a smooth and rich caramel. Light brown sugar – Adds deep sweetness and a slight chewiness to the glaze. Heavy cream – Enriches and smoothens the glaze for easy drizzling. Vanilla extract – Rounds out the sweetness of the caramel beautifully; perfect for the glaze. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and generously grease it with unsalted butter or cooking spray. This will ensure that your Apple Pecan Cake releases easily after baking, allowing you to enjoy every delightful slice without a hitch. Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves. Whisk these ingredients together well to ensure they are evenly distributed. This blend of spices will infuse your Apple Pecan Cake with the comforting flavors of fall. Set aside the dry mixture for later use. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. Look for the mixture to become light and fluffy, an indication that air has been incorporated and the cake will be tender. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful texture in your Apple Pecan Cake. Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs Add the large eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This method allows the eggs to fully integrate, contributing to the cake’s moisture and structure. Make sure the mixture is smooth and cohesive before moving on to the next step, which enhances the final flavor of your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. Step 5: Add Vanilla Extract Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until just combined. The vanilla adds an aromatic sweetness that elevates the overall flavor of your Apple Pecan Cake. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want to maintain the light and airy texture you’ve built so far. Step 6: Combine with Dry Ingredients Gradually incorporate the reserved dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Aim for a few streaks of flour remaining—overmixing can lead to a dense cake. This is a critical moment where the magic comes together to create a deliciously moist Apple Pecan Cake. Step 7: Fold in Apples and Pecans Gently fold in the peeled and chopped apples along with the toasted pecans. Use a rubber spatula to turn the mixture until the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed without overworking the batter. This step will add delightful textures and flavors to your cake, making it even more irresistible. Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish Pour and smooth the batter into your prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer across the surface. Use a spatula to spread the batter to the edges if needed. This preparation sets your Apple Pecan Cake to bake evenly, ensuring each slice is rich in flavor and moist. Step 9: Bake the Cake Bake the cake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This is an important step to ensure you serve a beautifully baked Apple Pecan Cake. Step 10: Prepare the Caramel Glaze While the cake bakes, prepare the caramel glaze. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, then add the light brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly. This creamy glaze will add a decadent finishing touch to your Apple Pecan Cake. Step 11: Finish the Glaze After boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the caramel glaze to cool slightly—this will help it thicken further for a perfect pour over your baked cake. This step completes the transformation of your cake into a beautifully decadent dessert. Step 12: Glaze the Cake Once your Apple Pecan Cake has finished baking and cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the warm caramel glaze generously over the top. Let it seep into the cake, enhancing the flavors and creating a tempting presentation. Your delightful Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze is ready to be sliced and shared! Storage Tips for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This retains the cake’s moisture and flavor. Fridge: You can refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This is a great option if you prefer your cake chilled! Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality. Reheating: To enjoy your Apple Pecan Cake warm, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. What to Serve with Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Imagine a cozy gathering filled with laughter and warmth, perfectly complemented by delightful dishes that enhance each bite of this scrumptious cake. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy vanilla ice cream melts over warm cake, offering a luscious contrast to the rich caramel glaze. Spiced Whipped Cream: Whip up some heavy cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon, adding a light and airy touch that brightens each slice. Cider-Glazed Carrots: The sweet, earthy flavors of these glazed carrots echo the spices in the cake, providing a lovely savory balance. Honey-Drizzled Yogurt: Serve tangy yogurt sweetened with honey for a refreshing palate cleanser that enhances the cake’s sweetness. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea beautifully match the cake’s flavors, creating a cozy experience with every sip. Apple Cinnamon Salad: A fresh salad featuring thinly sliced apples and cinnamon-spiced nuts will offer crunch and acidity that cuts through the cake’s sweetness. Maple Pecan Coffee: This rich coffee, laced with maple syrup and pecans, pairs perfectly to enhance the dessert’s nutty notes. Pumpkin Pie: For those who crave an extra slice of autumn, a classic pumpkin pie offers a traditional nod to seasonal flavors that everyone will love. Expert Tips for Apple Pecan Cake Perfecting the Batter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming. This will give your Apple Pecan Cake a light and airy texture. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense final product. Choose Firm Apples: Use firm apple varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji to maintain their structure and avoid excess moisture in the cake. Toast Those Pecans: Lightly toasting your pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their nutty flavor, elevating the taste of your cake. Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap pecans for walnuts or add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for unique twists on your Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze. Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Variations Feel free to get creative and make this already delightful cake fit your taste or dietary needs! Nut-Free: Replace the pecans with sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free option, perfect for schools or gatherings. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those avoiding gluten, ensuring everyone can enjoy this seasonal treat. Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil for butter in both the cake and glaze for a deliciously dairy-free version with a tropical twist. Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of ginger to the batter for a spicy kick that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. Chocolate Lovers: Fold in dark chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent chocolate-apple combo, sure to impress any chocoholic! Pineapple Touch: Mix in crushed pineapple with the apples to introduce an unexpected, juicy tropical flavor, reminiscent of a sunny day. Extra Caramel Swirl: Drizzle extra caramel sauce between the layers or on top for added decadence—a dreamy invitation to indulge! Apple Varieties: Experiment with different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for unique sweetness profiles in each bite. For an extra treat to accompany your cake, try pairing it with a chilled Apple Iced Tea on a sunny afternoon, or explore making a refreshing Pineapple Coconut Milkshake to create a delightful spread! Make Ahead Options These Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, the chopped apples can be prepped beforehand and tossed with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. For the caramel glaze, you can make it up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator; just reheat gently before drizzling it over the cake. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the baking dish, bake, and glaze for a delicious dessert that feels fresh and effortless! Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe FAQs What type of apples should I use for this cake? I recommend using firm apple varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for your Apple Pecan Cake. These apples hold their shape well during baking while providing the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. How long can I store the cake? You can store your Apple Pecan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer it chilled, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Either way, make sure it’s well-contained to maintain its moisture and flavor! Can I freeze the cake? Absolutely! For long-term storage, wrap individual slices of the Apple Pecan Cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. What should I do if the cake turns out dense? If your Apple Pecan Cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix just until ingredients are combined and stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour; this helps retain a tender crumb. Additionally, ensure that your baking soda is fresh, as this affects leavening. Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies? If you are serving guests with nut allergies, I recommend omitting the pecans from the recipe entirely. You can substitute them with additional apples to maintain texture or try sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch. How do I make the caramel glaze thicker? To thicken the caramel glaze for your Apple Pecan Cake, allow it to boil for an additional minute or two while stirring. If it’s still too thin, add a little extra brown sugar, returning to heat, and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. Just remember to let it cool slightly before pouring for optimal thickness! Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze for Cozy Fall Moments Delight in a warm, tender Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze that captures the essence of fall with juicy apples and crunchy pecans. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake2 cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg1/4 teaspoon ground cloves1/2 cup unsalted butter room temperature1 cup granulated sugar3 large eggs2 teaspoons vanilla extract3 cups apples peeled and chopped, firm varieties like Granny Smith1 cup pecans chopped, toasted for extra flavorFor the Caramel Glaze1/2 cup unsalted butter1 cup light brown sugar1/2 cup heavy cream1 teaspoon vanilla extract Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishmedium bowlLarge mixing bowlelectric mixerRubber spatulamedium saucepan Method InstructionsPreheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until just combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, mixing gently. Fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans evenly. Pour and smooth the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel glaze by melting butter and mixing in brown sugar and heavy cream. After boiling for 1-2 minutes, add the vanilla extract and cool slightly. Drizzle the caramel glaze over the cake after it has cooled for about 10 minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming. Mix batter just until combined to avoid dense cake. Use firm apples like Granny Smith and toast pecans for enhanced flavor. 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