As the leaves start to turn and the air gets that crispness that signals fall, I can’t help but get excited about baking! Nothing screams cozy quite like the warm, inviting flavors of a caramel apple spice cake. Seriously, every time I pull this cake out of the oven, the sweet scent of cinnamon and caramel fills my kitchen, wrapping me in a hug of comfort. It’s the perfect centerpiece for gatherings—whether it’s a festive autumn dinner or just a cozy afternoon with friends over coffee. I remember the first time I made this cake for a family get-together, and it disappeared in a flash! Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked on this delightful treat.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Spice Cake
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s everything you need to create this scrumptious caramel apple spice cake. Trust me, having everything ready makes the whole process smoother and even more enjoyable.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your cake. Make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy!
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps your cake rise perfectly, giving it that delightful lightness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Another leavening agent that works with the baking powder to ensure a fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds that warm, spicy flavor that screams fall!
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Just a pinch enhances the cozy autumn vibes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed – This gives a rich, caramel-like flavor to the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – For that perfect sweetness!
- 4 large eggs – They provide moisture and richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A must for adding depth to the flavor!
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples – Use your favorite tart variety for the best flavor.
- 1 cup caramel sauce – Drizzle it on top for that irresistible finish!
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a moist and flavorful cake that everyone will love. Let’s get baking!
How to Prepare Caramel Apple Spice Cake
Alright, let’s get into the delicious process of making this caramel apple spice cake! It’s easier than you might think, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s get baking!
Prepping the Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for getting that perfect rise! While your oven is warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it with a little unsalted butter or cooking spray. Then, dust it lightly with flour—this helps the cake release easily once it’s baked. Trust me, you don’t want to lose any of this goodness!
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I like to whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This step is super important because it helps the flavors meld together while keeping the cake light and fluffy. Just make sure there are no lumps before moving on!
Creaming the Butter and Sugars
Now it’s time to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes. You want to achieve a creamy, pale texture that looks almost like whipped clouds. This step locks in that moistness we all crave!
Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This is where the magic happens! Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as you go. After you’ve added all the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract. The aroma will be heavenly—just wait until you taste it!
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring the wet and dry mixtures together. Gradually add the dry mix into the butter and sugar blend, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix—it’s okay if there are a few small lumps! Finally, fold in those diced apples gently. This ensures they’re evenly dispersed without breaking down too much. You want those lovely apple chunks to shine!
Baking and Cooling
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Now for the fun part—drizzle that luscious caramel sauce over the top! It’ll melt into the cake as it bakes, creating a gooey goodness. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once it’s done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Patience is key here, but oh, the reward will be worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy fall days.
- The flavor combination of caramel and apples is simply irresistible!
- Each bite is moist and packed with warm spices that scream autumn.
- This cake is versatile—great for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day—perfect with a cup of coffee.
- It fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma, creating the ultimate cozy atmosphere.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, sure to impress family and friends alike.
Tips for Success
To make sure your caramel apple spice cake turns out fabulous every time, here are a few handy tips! First, use tart apples like Granny Smith for that perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor. Also, make sure your butter is softened but not melted—this helps achieve that fluffy texture when creaming. Don’t skip the whisking of the dry ingredients; it’s crucial for even distribution and avoiding clumps! When mixing wet and dry ingredients, remember: less is more! You want to mix just until combined to keep the cake tender. Lastly, let the cake cool completely before serving—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, these little tips will elevate your cake to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in this delicious caramel apple spice cake? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per slice, so you can enjoy it with a bit of knowledge:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods. But knowing this info can help you enjoy your cake guilt-free!
FAQ About Caramel Apple Spice Cake
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While I love using tart apples like Granny Smith for their bright flavor, you can mix it up with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just remember, the balance of sweetness and tartness is key to a delicious cake!
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your caramel apple spice cake turns out a bit dry, it might be due to overbaking. Make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. Also, serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can add moisture and elevate the experience!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! This cake actually tastes better after a day or two as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to make it even further in advance, you can freeze it. Wrap it well and thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to serve.
How can I store leftovers?
To keep your caramel apple spice cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to two months—just make sure to wrap it well!
Can I substitute the caramel sauce?
Yes! If you’re looking to cut back on sugar or just want something different, you can try using a homemade caramel or even a drizzle of maple syrup. Each option will give a unique spin on the flavor while still keeping that delicious sweetness!
For more delicious recipes, check out Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crumb Cake or Classic Apple Pie.
Print
Caramel Apple Spice Cake: 7 Steps to Pure Comfort
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful caramel apple spice cake perfect for fall celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups 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 unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in diced apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples for better flavor.
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: caramel apple spice cake
