As I flipped through a cherished old recipe book, a familiar aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cozy family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. This time, I decided to revive a family favorite: Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. This delightful cake marries the sweet, juicy richness of apples with the crunchy texture of pecans, all draped in a luscious caramel glaze that brings it to life. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also has a gluten-free option for those who are health-conscious. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, allowing you to impress your friends or treat your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to create a slice of comforting nostalgia? Why is this cake a must-bake? Simplicity makes this recipe a winner! With just a few steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. Irresistible flavor comes from the harmonious blend of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and rich caramel, making it perfect for any occasion. Versatile in nature, you can easily switch out pecans for walnuts or add fruits like cranberries for a fun twist. Comforting nostalgia awaits each bite, transporting you back to family gatherings filled with warmth. Plus, you can explore a gluten-free version, making it a treat for everyone! Whether served alone or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is bound to impress your guests, just like our No-Bake Summer Berry Icebox Cake does! Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Ingredients For the Cake All-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability; substitute with gluten-free flour for the gluten-free option. Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture, helping achieve a tender crumb. Chopped pecans – Contributes a rich, nutty flavor and delightful crunch, enhancing the overall taste. Shredded apples – Infuses moisture and natural sweetness, making the cake even more delicious. Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender, a must for great texture. Sour cream – Adds richness and a slight tang; Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative. Eggs – Essential for structure, acting as the binding agent for this lovely Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. Vanilla extract – Boosts flavor with aromatic notes that elevate the cake. Baking powder and baking soda – Crucial for leavening, ensuring a lovely rise and fluffy texture. Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the cake’s flavors. Ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and depth for a comforting flavor profile. For the Caramel Glaze Brown sugar – Creates a rich sweetness and depth in the glaze. Butter – Adds creaminess and smoothness to the glaze. Heavy cream – Ensures the glaze has a luscious texture that complements the cake beautifully. Vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze’s flavor, tying it nicely with the cake. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the Apple Pecan Cake bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray, making it easier to release the cake later. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well will ensure your Apple Pecan Cake has a consistent flavor and texture, creating a great base for your wet ingredients. Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients In a separate medium bowl, blend together ¾ cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of sour cream, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip these together until smooth and fully combined. The wet mixture will provide moisture and richness, crucial for the cake’s delightful texture. Step 4: Combine Mixtures Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture, stirring gently using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps preserve the light and fluffy texture of the Apple Pecan Cake. You should still see a few flour streaks, as this is perfectly fine. Step 5: Fold in Apples and Pecans Next, fold in 2 cups of shredded apples and 1 cup of chopped pecans gently into the batter. This adds moisture and texture, enhancing the delicious flavor of your Apple Pecan Cake. The batter should be thick and chunky with the inclusion of these fresh ingredients. Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan Pour the batter into your greased baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Ensure the batter fills the pan uniformly to promote even baking. As you set the pan down, take a moment to admire the enticing mixture filled with apples and nuts that will soon become a delightful cake. Step 7: Bake the Cake Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that it has set properly. You may also notice a lovely golden-brown color on the edges, adding to its visual appeal. Step 8: Cool Before Glazing Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After this initial cooling, transfer the Apple Pecan Cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential before applying the caramel glaze, as it ensures a smooth finish and prevents sliding. Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Variations Feel free to make this delicious cake your own with these creative twists and substitutions that cater to your tastes! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delectable alternative that everyone can enjoy. Nut-Free: Replace chopped pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely, allowing the apples to shine through without the crunch. Fruity Additions: Fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and a burst of flavor that complements the apples beautifully. Spice It Up: Enhance the warmth by incorporating 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice for a cozy twist that deepens the flavor profile. Zesty Kick: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a zesty flavor boost that brightens the cake and pairs wonderfully with the caramel. Caramel Substitutes: For a different glaze experience, try a cream cheese frosting instead of caramel for an equally indulgent treat. Layer It Up: Transform this cake into a layered masterpiece by slicing it in half and spreading a layer of whipped cream or additional glaze between the layers. Serve With Ice Cream: Pair slices of cake with your favorite flavor of ice cream, like vanilla or cinnamon, to elevate your dessert experience—similar to how you would with our delightful Red White Cake! Experiment and make this Apple Pecan Cake your own, delighting your taste buds and those you share it with! What to Serve with Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze A slice of joy awaits you with this delightful cake; let’s elevate your meal experience with some stylish pairings! Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the rich flavors of the cake, enhancing your dessert experience. Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delightful touch of elegance, making each bite even more indulgent. Coffee or Espresso: The deep, robust flavor of coffee complements the cake’s sweetness, creating a cozy café-like experience at home. Warm Cinnamon Apples: These tender, spiced apples echo the cake’s ingredients, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s comfortingly warm. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of extra caramel sauce elevates the sweetness, tying together the flavors while adding a luxurious touch. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola on the side for a crunchy contrast that enhances the cake’s pecan flavors beautifully. Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai tea resonate well with the cake’s cinnamon undertones, offering a delightful pairing option. Dive into this experience and create a meal that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also warm your heart! Expert Tips for Apple Pecan Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature ingredients for optimal mixing, ensuring your Apple Pecan Cake comes out evenly baked and fluffy. Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry mixtures without overmixing to keep your cake light and tender. This is a common mistake that can lead to a dense texture. Let it Rest: Allow the cake to sit covered overnight before serving. This helps enhance the flavors and makes each slice even more delightful. Storage Matters: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for lusciously fresh slices; this will also keep the moisture intact. Gluten-Free Tips: Use gluten-free flour for a deliciously inclusive version of the Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze, ensuring everyone can enjoy this heavenly treat! How to Store and Freeze Apple Pecan Cake Room Temperature: Store the Apple Pecan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor. Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep the cake in the fridge for 5 to 7 days; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid drying out. Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a freshly baked taste! Make Ahead Options These Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients separately, then combine them just before baking. The chopped pecans can also be added a day ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. If you want to bake the cake ahead, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored wrapped at room temperature. To finish, allow the cake to cool completely before drizzling with the caramel glaze right before serving, ensuring it remains just as delicious and inviting. This way, you can effortlessly impress guests or enjoy a sweet treat with minimal last-minute effort! Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze Recipe FAQs How do I select the right apples for this cake? Absolutely! Look for apples that are firm and slightly tart, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Avoid overly soft apples with dark spots, as they may not hold up well in baking. Fresh apples will impart sweetness and moisture to your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. How should I store leftover Apple Pecan Cake? To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, it can be kept in the fridge for 5 to 7 days; just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out. Can I freeze the Apple Pecan Cake? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the entire cooled cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to revive its delightful warmth. What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle? Very! This could be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter. Make sure to bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and mix gently when combining wet and dry ingredients to ensure a fluffy texture. If you notice dark spots or crumble while baking, it might be helpful to elevate the pan slightly in the oven for even heat distribution. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe? Yes, you can absolutely substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend looking for one that contains xanthan gum, as this will help with structure. This way, everyone can savor this scrumptious Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze without worrying about gluten allergies! Delicious Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze to Savor This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a delightful treat perfect for gatherings, combining sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and a luscious glaze. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: CakesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake2 cups all-purpose flour substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option1 cup granulated sugar1 cup chopped pecans2 cups shredded apples¾ cup vegetable oil1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative2 large eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 teaspoons baking powder1 teaspoon baking soda½ teaspoon salt1 teaspoon ground cinnamonFor the Caramel Glaze1 cup brown sugar½ cup butter½ cup heavy cream1 teaspoon vanilla extract Equipment Oven9x13-inch baking panMixing bowlsWhiskSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.In a separate bowl, blend together the vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.Fold in the shredded apples and chopped pecans gently into the batter.Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread evenly.Bake for 40–45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.Caramel Glaze InstructionsIn a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and butter; stir until smooth.Add heavy cream and vanilla, stirring until well combined and smooth.Pour the glaze over the cooled cake before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesFor a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
