Few desserts evoke the warmth and joy of home like a freshly baked apple pecan cake. With its tender texture, sweet apple flavor, nutty crunch, and rich caramel glaze, this cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special day, or simply craving a delightful homemade dessert, this recipe has you covered.
Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. From mixing the batter to creating a luscious caramel glaze, this recipe walks you through every step to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
In just about 90 minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to serve. Let’s dive into the preparation of this irresistible Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3/4 cup oil
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups peeled and diced Granny Smith apples (3-4 medium apples)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Caramel Glaze
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a tube pan or two loaf pans to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, sugar, and eggs until smooth and slightly fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Sifting ensures a light, smooth mixture, which helps the cake bake evenly.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
5. Add Apples and Pecans
Fold the diced apples and chopped pecans into the batter. Ensure they are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.
6. Transfer to the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), spreading it evenly.
7. Bake the Cake
Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check for doneness after 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
8. Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the cake is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
9. Glaze the Cake
Let the baked cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, drizzle the caramel glaze over the top, letting it seep into the cake for extra moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the cake and serve it 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. This cake also makes an excellent dessert for holiday gatherings or casual tea-time snacks.
Conclusion
The Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and textures. With the sweetness of apples, the crunch of pecans, and the decadent caramel glaze, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to make. The result? A golden, moist, and delicious cake that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of baking this delightful treat. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your guests will thank you!