Heavenly Caramel Apple Cake
Indulge in the decadent flavors of our Heavenly Caramel Apple Cake, inspired by a family-favorite recipe that takes advantage of fresh apples and is perfect for any occasion. The soft, moist cake is packed with sweet, diced apples and spiced to perfection with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. The real star, however, is the luscious caramel frosting that is prepared from scratch and poured over the cooled cake, creating a gooey and delicious topping that is simply irresistible. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a delightful dessert, this cake is sure to impress family and friends. Note: Feel free to add nuts or raisins for additional flavor and texture. It's a simple recipe that brings a touch of homemade goodness to your table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
vegetable oil
1 cup (can substitute half or all with applesauce)
sugar
2 cups
eggs
3 (large, room temperature)
vanilla extract
1.5 teaspoons
flour
2 cups (can substitute half with whole wheat flour)
salt
1 teaspoon
cinnamon
1/2-1 teaspoon (optional)
ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
baking soda
1 teaspoon
apples
3 cups (peeled and diced)
butter
1/2 cup (unsalted)
brown sugar
1 cup
milk
1/4 cup (can substitute with almond milk or other non-dairy milk)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and well-blended.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon (if using), nutmeg (if using), and baking soda.
4
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Make sure not to overmix.
5
Gently fold in the diced apples until they are evenly distributed within the batter.
6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting.
8
For the caramel topping, in a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
9
Once boiling, continue to cook without stirring for an additional 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before pouring it over the cooled cake.
10
Allow the caramel to set for at least an hour before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy your delightful caramel apple cake!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heavenly Caramel Apple Cake?
It is a soft, moist cake packed with sweet diced apples and warm spices, topped with a rich, homemade caramel frosting.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
Yes, you can substitute half or all of the vegetable oil with applesauce to reduce the fat content.
How many apples do I need for this recipe?
You will need approximately 3 cups of peeled and diced apples.
Is the cinnamon mandatory?
No, the cinnamon is optional, though adding 1/2 to 1 teaspoon is recommended for a spiced flavor.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 9x13-inch baking dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
You should grease and flour the 9x13-inch baking dish before pouring in the batter.
At what temperature should the cake be baked?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for baking this cake.
How long does the cake take to bake?
The cake typically bakes for 55-60 minutes.
How do I check if the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is finished baking.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts?
Yes, feel free to fold in nuts or raisins for additional flavor and texture.
Should the eggs be at a specific temperature?
The recipe recommends using three large eggs at room temperature.
Is nutmeg required in the batter?
Ground nutmeg is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the spiced cake.
What ingredients are in the caramel frosting?
The frosting is made from butter, brown sugar, and milk.
How long do I cook the caramel topping?
Once the mixture comes to a boil, cook it without stirring for exactly 3 minutes.
When should I apply the caramel frosting?
The frosting should be poured over the cake once the cake has cooled completely.
How long does the caramel need to set?
Allow the caramel to set for at least one hour before cutting and serving the cake.
Can I use a non-dairy milk alternative?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond milk or other non-dairy options.
What type of butter is best for the frosting?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of unsalted butter.
Should the apples be peeled?
Yes, the apples should be peeled and diced before being folded into the batter.
Is it a simple recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is a straightforward recipe that brings a touch of homemade goodness to your table.
Can I stir the caramel while it is boiling?
No, you should continue to cook it without stirring for 3 minutes once it starts boiling.
How much vanilla extract is used?
The recipe requires 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
What is the first step in making the cake?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your baking dish.
What kind of sugar is used in the frosting?
The caramel frosting uses 1 cup of brown sugar.
How much sugar goes into the cake batter?
The cake batter requires 2 cups of regular sugar.
Which leavening agent is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of baking soda as the leavening agent.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Yes, the luscious caramel frosting and spiced apple flavor make it perfect for any celebration.
How much salt is included?
The recipe includes 1 teaspoon of salt in the dry ingredients.
Do I need to let the frosting cool?
Yes, let the caramel frosting cool slightly after cooking before pouring it over the cake.