APPLE PECAN CAKE WITH CARAMEL GLAZE

Apple pecan cake with caramel glaze is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for autumn or any time you’re craving a rich, comforting treat. Here’s a recipe that combines moist apple cake with crunchy pecans and a luscious caramel glaze.

Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Apple Pecan Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the Caramel Glaze:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Apples and Pecans:
   • Gently fold in the chopped apples and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
7. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack.

2. Prepare the Caramel Glaze:

1. Cook Caramel:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Continue to boil for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Cream and Flavorings:
   • Remove from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble up. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Cool Slightly:
   • Let the caramel glaze cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.

3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Glaze the Cake:
   • Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the caramel glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
2. Optional Garnish:
   • Garnish with additional chopped pecans if desired.

Tips:

• Apples: Choose firm apples that hold their shape well during baking to avoid mushy pieces.
• Cake Pan: If using round pans, adjust the baking time as needed; they may cook faster than a 9×13 pan.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The caramel glaze may become sticky if refrigerated, so store it at room temperature if possible.

Enjoy your delicious apple pecan cake with caramel glaze—it’s a perfect blend of spiced apple flavor, crunchy pecans, and rich caramel sweetness!