There’s something magical about the combination of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and gooey caramel sauce, especially when they come together in a luscious homemade cake. This Caramel Apple Pecan Cake is a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave a comforting treat. With its moist crumb and buttery caramel drizzle, this cake offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The addition of tart apples keeps each bite fresh and juicy, while toasted pecans contribute a delightful crunch. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Preparation and Cook Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 45–50 minutes
- Total Time: About 60–65 minutes
Ingredients
To create this moist and tender Caramel Apple Pecan Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended for a warm, cozy flavor)
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Fruits & Nuts:
- 1½ cups peeled and diced apples (choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for balance)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra crunch)
- Caramel Sauce (for drizzling):
- Your favorite store-bought caramel sauce, or homemade (see note below)
Method & Stages of Preparation
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a standard bundt pan or a 9-inch round cake pan. This ensures your Caramel Apple Pecan Cake will release easily after baking. - Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and, if desired, ground cinnamon. Whisking helps evenly distribute these components, eliminating lumps and creating a consistent mixture. - Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a separate large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes, until the mixture becomes fluffy and lighter in color. This step is crucial for giving the cake its soft, moist texture. - Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Crack the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then pour in the pure vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated. - Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts. Mix on low speed to avoid overbeating, which can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as there are no visible streaks of flour. - Fold in Apples and Pecans:
Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped, lightly toasted pecans. This method distributes the fruit and nuts throughout the batter without deflating the mixture. - Transfer and Bake:
Pour the cake batter into your prepared bundt or round cake pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking and drying out the cake. - Cool and Drizzle:
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, drizzle it generously with rich caramel sauce.
Serving Suggestions & Caramel Sauce Note
For an extra indulgent twist, serve warm slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. To make your own homemade caramel sauce, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of brown sugar in a saucepan, then whisk in ½ cup of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly and turns a luscious golden brown. This sauce not only elevates the flavor but also gives your dessert a beautiful glossy finish that will tempt everyone at your table.
This Caramel Apple Pecan Cake is the perfect showcase of comforting fall flavors: sweet apples, buttery pecans, and creamy caramel all baked into one delectable masterpiece. It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a holiday feast or satisfy a late-night sweet craving, this cake checks all the boxes. From its tender crumb to its delightful crunch and irresistible caramel drizzle, each bite is guaranteed to leave you smiling. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you’ll enjoy a memorable dessert that friends, family, and guests will adore.