If there’s one dessert that instantly fills the house with warm, comforting aromas, it’s this apple pecan cake with caramel glaze. I made it last weekend, and it quickly disappeared from the table. Imagine soft chunks of apple nestled in a tender, spiced cake, perfectly paired with crunchy pecans.
Now top that with a buttery caramel glaze that drips down every slice…pure bliss! What I love most is how easy it is to whip up. It’s one of those desserts that feels fancy but doesn’t take hours.
Whether you’re making it for family dinner or a special occasion, it has that wow factor, and honestly, it’s even better the next day. I can’t wait to tell you all about it so you can enjoy it as much as I did!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe has all the elements to become your go-to treat. Here’s what makes it irresistible:
- Bold flavor combinations: The mix of tart Granny Smith apples, warm cinnamon, nutty pecans, and rich caramel glaze is simply unforgettable.
- Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you don’t have to be a seasoned baker to pull it off.
- Versatile dessert: It’s perfect for cozy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or even gifting to neighbors.
- Customizable ingredients: You can tweak it to suit dietary preferences, like using gluten-free flour or dairy-free caramel.
- Great texture: The cake offers the best of both worlds with its soft, moist crumb and crunchy pecans.
Cooking Time
Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you’ll need to make this delightful cake:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the cake and caramel glaze:
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups cooking oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
For the Caramel Glaze
- ¾ cup butter (1 and ½ sticks)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Variations
Get creative with these variations to suit your preferences or dietary needs!
- Swap out the Granny Smith apples for Honey Crisp or Fuji if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version.
- Replace whole milk in the glaze with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Add a touch of allspice or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Sprinkle a handful of raisins or dried cranberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
Equipment You’ll Need
Make sure to have these tools ready for success!
- Mixing bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk/spatula – To mix everything thoroughly.
- Tube pan or loaf pans – For baking the cake.
- Saucepan – To prepare the caramel glaze.
- Cooling rack – To cool the cake before glazing.
How to Make Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze?
This cake may look like a showstopper, but it’s super simple to make. Here’s how to do it step-by-step!
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease and flour a tube pan or two loaf pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the cooking oil, sugar, and eggs in a large mixing bowl until creamy. This forms the luscious base of your cake. 🍳
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Mix the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this into the wet ingredients until well combined.
Step 4: Add Flavorful Goodies
Gently mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the apple chunks and chopped pecans. Every bite will have a burst of flavor! 🍏
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan(s). Bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Cool the cake before glazing. 🎂
Step 6: Make the Caramel Glaze
Melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Stir in brown sugar and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.✨ Once it thickens, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy
Once the caramel cools slightly, pour it over the cake, letting it drip gloriously down the sides. 🤤
Tips for Making the Recipe
Follow these simple tips for the best results every time!
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Cut the apples into small chunks to ensure even distribution and texture in the cake.
- Pour the caramel glaze while it’s warm for a smooth finish that seeps into the cake beautifully.
- Room temperature ingredients like eggs yield a better batter consistency.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze?
Presentation is key to making a dessert look as good as it tastes. Serve this cake as follows for extra charm:
- Classic pairing: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Coffee companion: Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate comfort.
- Rustic style: Dust the cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Nutritional Information
This indulgence is worth every bite! Here’s an overview of the nutrition info per slice:
- Calories: 764
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 82g
- Fat: 47g
Make Ahead and Storage
This cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert that gets even more flavorful over time!
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Want longer storage? Wrap the whole cake in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature and warm up the glaze before serving.
Final Thoughts
Apple pecan cake with caramel glaze is truly the ultimate dessert for cozy evenings, family celebrations, or just because. With its balanced mix of tart apples, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans, it’s a cake that delights everyone. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a no-brainer when you’re craving homemade goodness. Bake this beauty, and I guarantee it’ll bring smiles all around. Happy baking!