Autumn is the perfect time to indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of apples, pecans, and caramel. This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze is a show-stopping dessert that combines tender cake, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, all topped with a luscious homemade caramel glaze. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a fall-inspired dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this cake so irresistible and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
- Packed with Fall Flavors: The combination of fresh Granny Smith apples, earthy pecans, and a rich caramel glaze captures the essence of autumn.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this cake is straightforward and requires no special baking techniques.
- Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or just as a comforting treat on a crisp autumn evening.
- Moist and Flavorful: The finely chopped apples add natural sweetness and moisture, while the pecans offer a delightful crunch in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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 (1½ sticks)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a tube pan, or two loaf pans if you prefer individual cakes. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and releases easily after baking.
2. Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooking oil, granulated sugar, and eggs. Beat them together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This forms the base of your batter.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
3. Incorporate the Apples and Pecans
Add the vanilla extract for a hint of richness. Then gently fold in the chopped Granny Smith apples and pecans. These ingredients add texture, moisture, and a burst of flavor to every bite.
4. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Begin checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
5. Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the brown sugar and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps the caramel thicken and develop its signature rich flavor.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the glaze to cool slightly, but ensure it remains pourable.
6. Add the Finishing Touch
Once the cake has cooled slightly, remove it from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Pour the caramel glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. For added flair, sprinkle extra pecans on top.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Apple Pecan Cake
- Use Fresh Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal because of their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cake and caramel glaze.
- Chop Apples Evenly: Finely chopping the apples ensures even distribution throughout the cake and prevents large chunks from sinking to the bottom.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher texture.
- Monitor the Glaze: Stir the caramel glaze constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.
Why Granny Smith Apples and Pecans?
Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for baking due to their firm texture and tart flavor, which holds up well during the baking process. When paired with the buttery, nutty flavor of pecans, they create a harmonious balance of sweetness and crunch. The combination is a classic for fall desserts, making this cake a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
This cake is versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It’s also fantastic with a cup of coffee or hot apple cider on a chilly autumn day.
For special occasions, you can garnish the cake with additional caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a stunning presentation.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds to restore their warm, gooey texture.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 38g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze is a dessert that truly celebrates the flavors of fall. The combination of tender apples, crunchy pecans, and a rich caramel glaze makes it an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight dessert, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Try it today and bring the comforting flavors of autumn into your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media using the hashtag #ApplePecanCakeWithCaramelGlaze. Happy baking!