If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly marries the warm spices of fall with a rich, buttery finish, this Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. Each bite offers a delightful crunch from toasted pecans, tender chunks of tart Granny Smith apples, and the heavenly sweetness of a luscious caramel glaze that soaks into every crumb. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in something comforting, this cake captures all those cozy, nostalgic flavors in one spectacular treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the tartness of the apples to the warm hug of cinnamon, and the toasted pecans that add fantastic texture. Here’s what you’ll gather before diving in:
- Cooking oil: Provides moisture and keeps the cake tender without weighing it down.
- Granulated sugar: Sweeter, fine texture helps create structure in the cake batter.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness, especially important for the glaze.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give the cake a fluffy lift.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, offering just the right crumb and density.
- Baking soda: Helps the cake rise and keeps it light.
- Cinnamon: Brings that classic warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
- Salt: Balances flavors and intensifies the sweetness of the cake.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic depth that enhances all other flavors.
- Granny Smith apples: Tart and crisp, they provide freshness and texture.
- Chopped pecans: Toasty crunch that contrasts the softness of the cake beautifully.
- Butter: Used in the caramel glaze for richness and smoothness.
- Whole milk: Helps create the creamy consistency of the glaze.
How to Make Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is just right to bake the cake slowly, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to stay moist. Grease and flour your tube or loaf pan thoroughly to make sure the cake slides out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cooking oil, granulated sugar, and eggs until you get a smooth, slightly thickened mixture. This base will keep the cake tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix here, or you might end up with a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
Step 5: Fold in the Flavors
Gently fold in the vanilla extract, chopped Granny Smith apples, and pecans. These add bursts of flavor and texture in every bite, making the cake truly special.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Tender
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 1 hour. Begin checking for doneness with a toothpick after 50 minutes. When it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to cool.
Step 7: Create the Decadent Caramel Glaze
While the cake cools, make your glaze by melting butter in a small pan. Stir in brown sugar and whole milk, and bring this mixture to a boil. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens into the perfect caramel consistency.
Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the warm caramel glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. This glaze seeps into the cake, creating an irresistibly moist and shiny finish.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe truly pop on the table, consider sprinkling some extra chopped pecans on top or adding a light dusting of cinnamon. A few thin apple slices arranged artfully can also add fresh color and a crisp contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with cozy sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more decadent approach, serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee—the flavors complement each other wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, plate individual slices with a drizzle of extra caramel glaze and a sprig of fresh mint. You can also cut the cake into small squares and serve it as bite-sized treats at parties or afternoon gatherings. Presentation like this will surely earn you rave reviews!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended to maintain the glaze’s texture and prevent the pecans from going stale.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat or you might melt the caramel glaze too much.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make great alternatives if you want a different flavor or texture. Toast them lightly for the best crunch and nutty aroma.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
Granny Smith apples are ideal because their tartness balances the sweetness of the glaze and cake. However, crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn can also add a nice touch.
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure, or add it separately as per package instructions.
Can I prepare the caramel glaze in advance?
Definitely! You can make the caramel glaze a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just warm it gently before drizzling over the cake to restore that silky texture.
What’s the best pan to use for baking this cake?
A tube or bundt pan works beautifully because it ensures even cooking and creates an elegant shape. If you don’t have one, a loaf pan will also do the trick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a slice of Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe with friends and family. Its beautiful blend of textures and flavors makes it a dessert to savor slowly and enjoy thoroughly. I can’t recommend baking this cozy cake enough—it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection and a sweet tradition at your table.
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Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze is a moist, flavorful treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a cozy dessert. Packed with tart Granny Smith apples and crunchy pecans, this cake is topped with a rich, buttery caramel glaze that adds a luscious sweetness. Ideal for gatherings or special occasions, it combines classic autumn flavors with a tender crumb and a decadent finishing touch.
Ingredients
Cake
- Cooking oil – 1/2 cup
- Granulated sugar – 1 cup
- Eggs – 2 large
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped – 2 cups
- Chopped pecans – 1 cup
Caramel Glaze
- Butter – 4 tablespoons
- Brown sugar – 1 cup
- Whole milk – 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a tube or loaf pan thoroughly to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cooking oil, granulated sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Add flavorings and mix-ins: Fold in the vanilla extract, chopped Granny Smith apples, and chopped pecans evenly into the batter, incorporating all ingredients without breaking up the fruit.
- Transfer and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, starting to check the doneness with a toothpick at 50 minutes. The toothpick should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- Prepare caramel glaze: While the cake bakes, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and whole milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the glaze thickens to a syrupy consistency.
- Glaze and finish: Once the cake is out of the oven and cooled to room temperature, drizzle the warm caramel glaze evenly over the top. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Use tart Granny Smith apples for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Chilling the pecans before chopping can help prevent them from becoming oily.
- Check the cake at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking; ovens vary in temperature.
- For a richer caramel glaze, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
