Oh my goodness, let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the sweet, comforting aroma of apples and caramel wafting through your kitchen! It’s like a warm hug from Grandma, and it instantly makes you feel at home. My caramel apple spice cake recipe is a delightful blend of moist cake and rich, gooey caramel, with just the right amount of cinnamon to bring out that cozy fall vibe, even if it’s the middle of summer. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this cake has become a staple at my family gatherings.
This recipe is so special to me because it reminds me of those crisp autumn afternoons when my family and I would go apple picking. We’d come home with bags bursting with fresh apples, and my mom would whip up her famous apple desserts. I’ve taken her classic flavors and combined them into this cake that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. So, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want to treat yourself after a long day, this cake is sure to impress! Let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling and extra sweetness)
- 1 cup chopped apples (I love using tart ones for a great flavor balance!)
How to Prepare the Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe
Alright, friends, let’s get this cake baking! I promise you, it’s easier than you think and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious caramel apple spice cake in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a well-preheated oven ensures that your cake rises beautifully and bakes evenly. So, go ahead and set that temperature before you start mixing—trust me, it’s a key step!
Creaming the Butter and Sugars
Now, grab a big mixing bowl and let’s start creaming together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. I usually use an electric mixer for this part, but a good old-fashioned whisk works too if you’re feeling strong! Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial because it adds air into your batter, making your cake nice and fluffy!
Adding the Eggs and Flavorings
Next up, it’s time to add the eggs! I like to add them one at a time, mixing well after each addition to make sure everything is well incorporated. After you’ve added all three eggs, stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract. Oh, the smell of vanilla just makes everything better, doesn’t it? You’re building that flavor base, and it’s going to be fantastic!
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This step is important because it ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices throughout your cake. Once mixed, gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. It helps to do this in batches—mixing until just combined after each addition. We don’t want to overmix here; we want a tender cake!
Incorporating the Chopped Apples
Now for the fun part! Gently fold in those chopped apples. I love using a spatula for this, as it helps keep the apples intact and prevents them from getting all mushy. You want those glorious chunks of apple to shine through in your cake!
Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased cake pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Now here’s a little tip: check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re golden! If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes and check again.
Cooling and Drizzling with Caramel
Once your cake is baked to perfection, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, flip it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Waiting for it to cool is the hardest part, but it’s worth it! Once it’s cooled, drizzle that luscious caramel sauce all over the top. It’s the finishing touch that takes this cake from great to absolutely divine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—just 15 minutes to get it ready for the oven!
- Rich, moist flavor that combines sweet caramel and tart apples for a delightful balance.
- Perfect for gatherings—this cake is always a crowd-pleaser at parties and family events.
- Versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
- Easy to make, even for beginner bakers—no complicated techniques required!
- Leftovers (if there are any!) stay fresh and delicious for days when stored properly.
- Gorgeous presentation with the caramel drizzle makes it look as good as it tastes!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your caramel apple spice cake turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to help you achieve cake glory:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality apples and pure vanilla extract. The better the ingredients, the better your cake will taste! I love using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel.
- Don’t Skip the Preheating: As I mentioned earlier, preheating is crucial! An oven that’s at the right temperature will ensure your cake rises properly and bakes evenly. Give it a good 10-15 minutes to heat up before you pop that cake in.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend together more smoothly, leading to a lighter texture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: When measuring your flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Don’t scoop directly from the bag, as it can compact the flour and lead to a dense cake.
- Mix Gently: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, and nobody wants that! A few lumps are okay.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes! Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Remember, a toothpick should come out clean or with only a few crumbs!
- Let It Cool: Patience is key! Allowing the cake to cool completely before drizzling with caramel is essential. It prevents the caramel from melting into the cake and ensures a beautiful presentation.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which you probably will!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge but let it come back to room temperature before serving.
Follow these tips, and I promise you’ll have a show-stopping caramel apple spice cake that’s sure to impress! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice of this delightful caramel apple spice cake. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 3g
This cake is definitely a treat, so indulge wisely! It’s perfect for special occasions or just when you need a little pick-me-up. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gotten a few questions about my caramel apple spice cake recipe, so I thought I’d round them up for you! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you bake the best cake possible.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While I love using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, any variety will work. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp will add more sweetness to the cake, so adjust your sugar accordingly if needed!
What can I substitute for applesauce?
If you don’t have applesauce on hand, you can use mashed bananas or even Greek yogurt! Just remember that this might slightly change the flavor and texture, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This cake actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container after it has cooled completely. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the fridge before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it, but let it come to room temperature before enjoying again. Trust me, it’s best enjoyed at room temp!
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Of course! You can replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or even brown sugar, but keep in mind that it might alter the cake’s texture and flavor slightly. It’s all about what you enjoy!
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake comes out drier than expected, try serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream to add moisture and richness. You can also add a bit more applesauce next time to keep it moist!
If you have any other questions or tips that you want to share, feel free to reach out! Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious creation!
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Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe: 7 Irresistible Steps
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful cake featuring caramel and apple.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup chopped apples
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in applesauce and vanilla extract.
- Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Fold in chopped apples.
- Pour batter into a greased cake pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Notes
- Use tart apples for a balanced flavor.
- Serve with whipped cream for added richness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: caramel apple spice cake recipe