Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a dessert you’ll instantly fall in love with for its rich flavors, moist texture, and indulgent caramel topping.
The combination of sweet apples and crunchy pecans creates the perfect balance of softness and crunch, making each bite a delightful experience.
One of the best things about this cake is its warm, comforting aroma. As it bakes, your kitchen fills with the scent of cinnamon, apples, and toasted pecans, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like home.
It’s the perfect treat for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and homemade.
The caramel glaze takes this cake to the next level, adding a buttery, rich sweetness that seeps into every bite. The smooth, velvety texture of the caramel perfectly complements the slightly dense, moist cake, ensuring an irresistible taste experience.
Not only is this cake delicious, but it’s also easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. It stays moist for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a true crowd-pleaser!
Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
Description
Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a moist, flavorful dessert packed with juicy apples, crunchy pecans, and warm spices.
This homemade cake offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it ideal for fall gatherings, holidays, or special occasions.
The rich caramel glaze drizzled on top adds a luscious, buttery finish that enhances every bite. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or vanilla ice cream.
Simple yet indulgent, it’s a must-try treat for anyone who loves comforting, homemade desserts.
Ingredients
For the Caramel Glaze:
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or a 9x13-inch baking pan.
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Prepare the cake batter:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until combined.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.
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Bake the cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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Prepare the caramel glaze:
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
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Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth and bubbly (about 3 minutes).
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
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Glaze the cake:
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Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cooled cake.
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Let it set for a few minutes before serving.
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Note
Here's a detailed guide on tips and serving tricks for making the perfect Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze in 500 words.
Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze
- Choose the Right Apples
- Opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and caramel glaze.
- Avoid overly soft apples, as they can make the cake mushy.
- Toast the Pecans
- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Don't Overmix the Batter
- Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir the ingredients just until combined to keep the texture light and moist.
- Use Brown Sugar for Extra Flavor
- Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like depth to the cake that pairs perfectly with the caramel glaze.
- Let the Cake Cool Before Adding the Glaze
- If you pour the caramel glaze on a hot cake, it may become too runny and soak into the cake rather than sitting on top.
- Let the cake cool for at least 20-30 minutes before glazing.
Serving Tricks for the Best Experience
- Serve Warm for the Best Flavor
- Warm slices of apple pecan cake taste even better because the caramel glaze becomes gooey and rich.
- Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
- Pair with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream complements the cake’s warm, spiced flavors.
- Freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cake.
- Add Extra Toppings for More Texture
- Sprinkle extra toasted pecans or a pinch of sea salt over the caramel glaze to enhance flavor and crunch.
- A dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top adds warmth and spice.
- Serve in Mini Portions for Gatherings
- Bake the batter in muffin tins for easy-to-serve mini cakes.
- Drizzle caramel glaze over each mini cake for a visually appealing presentation.
- Make it Ahead for Convenience
- This cake stays moist for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
- Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Drizzle Glaze Just Before Serving for Best Presentation
- If storing the cake, hold off on glazing until just before serving to keep the caramel fresh and shiny.
By following these tips and serving tricks, you’ll ensure that your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is moist, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Enjoy!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Keep My Apple Pecan Cake Moist?
Apple pecan cake stays moist due to the natural juices from the apples and the rich combination of butter and eggs in the batter. However, to ensure maximum moisture:
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Use fresh apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, which have high moisture content.
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Do not overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense, dry cake.
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Bake at the right temperature (usually 325°F–350°F) and check for doneness using a toothpick—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
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Store properly by wrapping it in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Can I Make the Caramel Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! The caramel glaze can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
When ready to use, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each. If the glaze thickens too much, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to restore its pourable consistency.
Can I Substitute Pecans or Make This Cake Nut-Free?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or prefer a different texture:
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Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a slight variation in flavor.
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For a nut-free version, omit the pecans entirely and replace them with raisins, shredded coconut, or extra apples for added texture.
