The Best Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe

As the crisp air of fall settles in, there’s nothing better than the comforting aroma of a spice cake baking in your kitchen. Pair that with caramel and apples, and you have a recipe for the ultimate autumn dessert: Caramel Apple Spice Cake. This cake is a delightful combination of warm spices, tender apples, and gooey caramel sauce. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or a holiday feast, this cake will quickly become a seasonal favorite. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how to make this indulgent treat step by step!

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What is Caramel Apple Spice Cake?

Caramel Apple Spice Cake is a moist and tender cake infused with warm fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, mixed with chunks of fresh apples. The cake is then topped with a rich, buttery caramel sauce that seeps into the layers of the cake, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The flavors come together beautifully to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. Imagine the taste of a caramel apple wrapped in a deliciously spiced cake – that’s exactly what this recipe delivers.

Ingredients List for Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start making this decadent dessert. Having everything ready to go will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour: The base of your cake, providing structure.
• 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
• ½ teaspoon of baking soda: Aids in leavening and creates a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the cake warmth.
• ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle earthy sweetness.
• ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves: A bold spice that enhances the fall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon of salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
• ½ cup of brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth and moisture.
• 3 large eggs: Helps bind the cake together.
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the spices.
• 1 cup of buttermilk: Contributes to the cake’s tenderness and moisture.
• 2 medium apples (peeled and chopped): Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their balance of sweetness and tartness.

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup of brown sugar (packed): The base for your caramel sauce.
• ½ cup of unsalted butter: Adds richness and creates the smooth texture of the caramel.
• ¼ cup of heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce creamy and luscious.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the caramel.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the caramel.

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped toasted pecans: For added crunch and flavor.
• A dollop of whipped cream: To balance the richness.
• Extra apple slices: For decoration and added texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Looking to modify the recipe? Here are some substitutions and variations to suit different preferences or ingredients you have on hand:

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use almond milk or oat milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar to replace the buttermilk.
• Different Apples: You can use any type of apple for this cake, but Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for their tartness and texture.
• Caramel Sauce Shortcut: Store-bought caramel sauce can be used if you’re short on time, though homemade caramel will give the best flavor.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9x13-inch pan, depending on your preferred cake shape.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined – be careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans or pour it into the 9x13-inch pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Baking the Cake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes for round pans or 40-45 minutes for a 9x13-inch pan. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
2. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparing the Caramel Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Let the sauce boil for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Once the cake is completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
2. Pour some of the caramel sauce over the first layer, letting it soak into the cake. Place the second layer on top (if using round pans), and drizzle more caramel sauce over the top.
3. Allow the sauce to drizzle down the sides of the cake for a rustic, mouth-watering presentation.

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

Here’s a quick rundown of how to make this Caramel Apple Spice Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your cake pans.
2. Make the cake batter by creaming butter and sugars, then adding eggs, vanilla, and alternating dry ingredients with buttermilk. Fold in the apples.
3. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes (or longer if using a larger pan) and allow it to cool completely.
4. Prepare the caramel sauce by melting butter, brown sugar, and cream together, then stirring in vanilla and salt.
5. Assemble the cake, layering with caramel sauce and letting it drizzle down the sides for a beautiful finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to be dense or tough. Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined.
• Skipping the Cooling Process: Be sure to let the cake cool completely before adding the caramel sauce, or the sauce could melt and slide off the cake.
• Burning the Caramel: Be careful when making the caramel sauce – it can burn quickly if left unattended. Stir constantly and don’t walk away!

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Caramel Apple Spice Cake:

• Serve the cake slightly warm for the best flavor and texture. The caramel sauce will be gooey, and the cake will be incredibly tender.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side to complement the warm spices and caramel.

Presentation Ideas for Caramel Apple Spice Cake:

• Drizzle Extra Caramel: Right before serving, drizzle more caramel over the cake for added visual appeal and flavor.
• Apple Garnish: Garnish the cake with thin apple slices fanned around the top, or add a few caramel-dipped apple slices on the side.
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: For a nutty contrast, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the caramel-topped cake.

Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: The cake can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature. Add the caramel sauce just before serving for the freshest presentation.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving to enjoy the cake warm.
• Freeze the Cake: You can freeze the unglazed cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw before assembling and adding the caramel sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake without the caramel sauce?

Yes! The cake is still delicious without the caramel sauce, though the caramel really takes it to the next level. You could substitute the caramel with a cream cheese frosting or simply dust the cake with powdered sugar.

2. Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?

Absolutely! This recipe works well as cupcakes. Simply divide the batter into a lined cupcake pan and bake for 18-22 minutes. Drizzle caramel over each cupcake after baking and cooling.

3. What kind of apples should I use?

Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, which complements the sweet caramel sauce. However, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious apples also work well.

4. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you’re short on time. However, homemade caramel adds a rich, buttery flavor that is hard to beat.

Conclusion

This Caramel Apple Spice Cake is the perfect embodiment of fall in a dessert – warm, spiced, and loaded with apples, topped with gooey caramel sauce. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and a show-stopping presentation, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds. So why wait? Bake this cake today and enjoy the ultimate fall dessert!

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