The Ultimate Apple Pecan Cake: A Delightful Fall Treat

There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of apples, cinnamon, and pecans baking in the oven. This Apple Pecan Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a sweet homemade treat. With its moist texture, rich flavors, and a luscious brown sugar glaze, this cake is a must-try. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through every step to ensure a perfectly baked cake that will leave everyone asking for more.

 

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Cooling Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 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 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced (about 3-4 apples)
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

Instructions 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oil and sugar, whisking until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air into the batter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and sea salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Mix in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
6. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a bundt pan to prevent sticking.
2. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, whisking continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to thicken.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the warm cake.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the cake has absorbed the glaze and cooled slightly, slice it into generous pieces and serve. This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

 

This Apple Pecan Cake is an easy-to-make yet incredibly flavorful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The combination of tender apples, crunchy pecans, and a rich brown sugar glaze makes it an irresistible treat. Whether enjoyed as a cozy afternoon snack or the highlight of a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress. Try it today, and let the warm, spiced flavors bring comfort to your kitchen!