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Perfect Apple Cake Recipe with Easy Caramel Glaze

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A moist apple-packed cake topped with a decadent caramel glaze, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3 cups (450g) diced apples (firm and tart varieties like Granny Smith)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to bubble. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  9. Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the warm caramel glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides.

Notes

[‘Use fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.’, ‘Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.’, ‘Prepare the caramel glaze fresh for the best flavor and texture.’, ‘Dice apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cake, caramel glaze, fall dessert, easy cake recipe, moist apple cake