Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of autumn, then this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is just what you need. The combination of sweet Granny Smith apples and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture and flavor that’s simply irresistible. This cake is not only perfect for those chilly evenings but also shines at family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a treat for yourself after a long day.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. You can easily share it with friends or enjoy it on a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you take a bite of this rich, moist cake drizzled with warm caramel glaze, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the delicious apple and pecan combo; it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance and store it. It tastes even better the next day!
• Decadent Flavor: The homemade caramel glaze adds a luxurious touch that elevates this cake to something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s get started on creating this delicious Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze!

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 (approximately 3-4 apples))
• 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

Variations

One of the fantastic things about this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add spices: Enhance the flavor by adding nutmeg or allspice for an extra warming touch.
• Mix in raisins: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
• Use different nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake accessible for everyone.

How to Make Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooking oil and granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. This step ensures a smooth batter that helps your cake rise beautifully!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while stirring gently. This method keeps your batter light and fluffy—perfect for an airy cake!

Step 3: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Once your batter is mixed, fold in the finely chopped Granny Smith apples and pecans. This adds moisture and texture to your cake while infusing it with delicious flavors.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan or two round cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen during baking will be heavenly!

Step 5: Make the Caramel Glaze

While your cake cools, prepare the caramel glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, light brown sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until melted and smooth. This glaze will add that rich finish to your already delightful cake!

Step 6: Drizzle and Enjoy

Once your cake has cooled slightly, drizzle warm caramel glaze generously over the top. Slice up generous pieces to share with friends or keep all to yourself—you deserve it! Enjoy every bite of this comforting Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Making this delightful Apple Pecan Cake is easier than you might think, and a few tips can help ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh Granny Smith apples add the best flavor and texture. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and caramel glaze beautifully.

• Chop pecans finely: Finely chopped pecans will distribute evenly throughout the batter, giving every bite a delightful crunch without overwhelming the other flavors.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing your cake to cool completely before adding the caramel glaze ensures that it doesn’t melt away, allowing for a beautiful presentation and rich flavor.

• Make extra caramel sauce: If you love caramel (who doesn’t?), consider doubling the caramel recipe. It makes a fantastic drizzle over ice cream or pancakes!

• Store properly: To keep your cake moist, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigeration may dry it out.

How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Serving your Apple Pecan Cake can be just as enjoyable as baking it! Here are some fun ideas to make your dessert shine.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, fluffy contrast to the dense cake while keeping everything dairy-free.

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top of the glaze for added crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake and provides a lovely contrast to the caramel sauce.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like berries or oranges offers a light and vibrant counterbalance to the richness of the cake.

• Hot tea or coffee: Pairing this dessert with a steaming cup of tea or coffee elevates the experience, making it perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze! Each bite is sure to bring comfort and joy, capturing the essence of autumn in every slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is perfect for meal prep! It stays fresh for days and makes a delightful treat to have on hand for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Place the cake in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days.
• If you plan on keeping it longer, consider refrigerating it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the cooled cake into individual slices or keep it whole.
• Wrap each slice or the entire cake in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label and date the package before placing it in the freezer.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For best results, reheat slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warm.
• If reheating an entire cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. This will help bind the ingredients while maintaining moisture.

How do I store Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze?

Store your cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, you can use any firm apple variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that sweetness levels may vary.

What can I substitute for whole milk in the caramel glaze?

You can use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative. They will work just as well and still provide that creamy texture you love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug of autumn flavors that brings people together. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!