Autumn’s embrace is filled with the scent of spiced comforts, and nothing captures it quite like a slice of Caramel Apple Spice Cake. As I stirred the warm ingredients this morning, memories of cozy kitchen moments surfaced, inviting friends and family to gather around the table. This cake, with its moist layers and rich salted caramel glaze, is a delightful and surprisingly easy recipe to whip up, making it ideal for seasoned bakers and newcomers alike. Plus, it’s adaptable—perfect for gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free variations, ensuring everyone can enjoy this seasonal treat. Are you ready to indulge in the flavors of fall and create a dessert that elevates your gatherings? Let’s dive into the magic of this delightful cake!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: This Caramel Apple Spice Cake is a symphony of comforting spices and sweet apples that evoke the essence of fall in every bite.
Easy preparation: You don’t need to be a baking pro to create this masterpiece; the straightforward steps allow anyone to shine in the kitchen.
Versatile options: Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or looking for nut-free alternatives, this recipe allows for delicious customization to suit every dietary need.
Showstopper dessert: Impress your guests at autumn gatherings or family dinners with a cake that not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning on the table. Pair it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra indulgence!
Caramel Apple Spice Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability; use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free options.
- Baking powder & Baking soda – Essential leavening agents to ensure the cake rises perfectly.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon, ginger, pumpkin pie spice, & nutmeg – These warm spices add that signature autumn flavor.
- Canola oil – Keeps the cake moist; can swap with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Brown sugar & Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and adds moisture; coconut sugar is a great alternative.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth; opt for high-quality extract for the best flavor.
- Large eggs – Ensure richness and promote leavening; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Sour cream & Buttermilk – Provide ideal moisture and tenderness; Greek yogurt works as a substitute for sour cream.
- Apples (Gala) – These sweet apples are the star of your filling; other varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work wonderfully too.
- Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for the apple filling.
For the Frosting
- Unsalted butter – Creates that rich, creamy texture; using unsalted allows control over flavor.
- Heavy cream – Adds a luxurious creaminess to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and assures a smooth finish.
For the Apple Filling
- Butter – Enhances flavor when sautéing the apples.
- Brown sugar – Sweetens the filling, giving it a delightful caramelized flavor.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the warm, cozy taste of the apple filling.
With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’ll craft a Caramel Apple Spice Cake that’s more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of autumn!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Apple Spice Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the temperature is just right for baking your Caramel Apple Spice Cake evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your equipment, including three 8-inch round cake pans, and grease them lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and your spices—cinnamon, ginger, pumpkin pie spice, and nutmeg. This step is crucial as it combines the dry ingredients thoroughly and aerates the flour. Set this mixture aside for later use while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the canola oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, eggs, and buttermilk until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with no visible lumps. This rich blend of wet ingredients will bring moisture and flavor to your Caramel Apple Spice Cake, helping it rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This gentle incorporation will maintain the cake’s fluffy texture. Once combined, you’re ready to pour the batter into the prepared cake pans.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the three greased cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for 20–24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should be lightly golden and spring back to the touch. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel
While the cakes are cooling, prepare your salted caramel. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add granulated sugar and melt it, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Immediately stir in the unsalted butter and warmed heavy cream until smooth. Let the caramel cool slightly before using it to frost your cake.
Step 7: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Cook while stirring frequently until the apples soften and the mixture thickens, about 5–7 minutes. The filling should be bubbly and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before layering it onto the cake.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cooled salted caramel, and a pinch of cinnamon. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. This luscious frosting will grace the outside of your Caramel Apple Spice Cake and harmonize beautifully with the other flavors.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, carefully trim the tops to create even layers. On your serving plate, place the first layer, spread a generous amount of frosting over the top, and layered with part of the apple filling. Repeat this process with the second layer. For the final layer, place it upside down for a flat top before frosting the exterior.
Step 10: Chill the Cake
To allow the frosting to set perfectly, place the assembled Caramel Apple Spice Cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chill time helps the cake hold its shape and enhances the flavors. Once ready, serve it as is or with a drizzle of the remaining salted caramel for an indulgent treat!
Caramel Apple Spice Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the cake friendly for gluten-sensitive friends. It’ll still be deliciously moist and satisfying!
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Dairy-Free: Swap dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt. This ensures everyone can enjoy a slice without worry.
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Nut-Free: Omit nuts in the apple filling and substitute with more apples or other fruits like berries to cater to nut allergies while still bringing delightful flavors.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For a tangy twist, replace the butter in the frosting with cream cheese. This adds a delightful zing that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s sweetness.
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More Spice: Increase the spices by adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom for an extra pop of flavor that will warm your guests through the fall season.
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Pecan Pralines: Top your cake with chopped pecan pralines for added crunch and caramel flavor. The combination of textures is nothing short of divine!
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Cupcake Version: Transform this cake into cupcakes by reducing baking time to 18-20 minutes. These delightful morsels are perfect for gatherings or lunchboxes.
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Berry Bliss: Swap out some apples for your favorite berries, like raspberries or blueberries, to add a fresh, fruity contrast that brightens each bite.
Feel free to explore these variations, and let them inspire you to create your perfect version of this beautiful cake! If you’re also looking for dessert inspiration, consider trying an Italian Lemon Cake or a dreamy Coffee Cheesecake for your next special occasion!
How to Store and Freeze Caramel Apple Spice Cake
Room Temperature: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This maintains its moisture and flavor beautifully.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 5 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze the Caramel Apple Spice Cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To warm slices, microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Expert Tips for Caramel Apple Spice Cake
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Prevent Overmixing: Keep the cake fluffy by mixing just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Perfecting Caramel: Stir constantly while melting the sugar to avoid burning it. Patience is key for a smooth, rich caramel sauce.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and dairy are at room temperature for better incorporation, leading to a lighter Caramel Apple Spice Cake.
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Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting and assembling; this prevents the frosting from melting and keeps the cake intact.
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Make-Ahead Option: You can bake the cake layers and apple filling a day in advance. Just keep them tightly wrapped in the fridge to retain freshness.
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Spice Cake
As you indulge in this delightful dessert, consider these complementary dishes and drinks that enhance the warm, spiced flavors.
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Whipped Cream: The lightness of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the rich caramel frosting, enhancing each bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Chilled vanilla ice cream melts delightfully when paired with the warm cake, offering a heavenly temperature contrast.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A steaming cup of spiced apple cider complements the cake’s flavors, wrapping you in cozy autumn vibes.
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Candied Pecans: The sweet crunch of candied pecans adds a pleasing texture, making every mouthful exciting and joyous.
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Salted Caramel Drizzle: A little extra caramel syrup drizzled on top creates a luscious finish that both beautifies and adds depth of flavor.
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Cheese Plate: Pair with a mild cheese, like Brie or Gouda, to balance the sweetness with a touch of savory creaminess.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a perfect autumn beverage, a pumpkin spice latte echoes the season’s flavors and creates a delightful harmony with the cake.
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Fresh Pear Slices: Fresh pear slices add a refreshing fruitiness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cake, creating a balanced palate.
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Chocolate Bark: Break up some dark chocolate bark for a sweet finish that also gives a hint of bitterness to balance the overall sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Caramel Apple Spice Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. The apple filling can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just ensure it’s completely cooled before storing, which will help to prevent moisture build-up. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost and assemble the cake, letting it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set. This way, your Caramel Apple Spice Cake will taste just as delightful, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations!
Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
For this Caramel Apple Spice Cake, I recommend using sweet apple varieties like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape well during cooking and provide a deliciously sweet flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
How long can I store leftover cake?
Leftover Caramel Apple Spice Cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it can extend its life up to 5 days. Just be sure to allow it to reach room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor!
Can I freeze the Caramel Apple Spice Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake overnight in the fridge for the best results.
What do I do if my caramel sauce turns grainy?
If your salted caramel sauce turns grainy, it’s usually due to crystallization. To fix it, you can try reheating the caramel over low heat, stirring continuously until it smooths out. Adding a splash of water or cream can also help rehydrate the mixture; just stir it in gently.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version of the Caramel Apple Spice Cake, simply substitute all dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use almond or soy milk instead of buttermilk and choose dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream. For the frosting, creamy coconut butter works wonders.
How can I prevent the cake from being too dense?
To avoid a dense Caramel Apple Spice Cake, make sure you’re mixing your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Also, ensure your eggs and dairy products are at room temperature before mixing, which helps them incorporate better into the batter.
Caramel Apple Spice Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- Whisk together the canola oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, eggs, and buttermilk until smooth.
- Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide batter among the pans and bake for 20–24 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare salted caramel by melting sugar over medium heat until amber, then add butter and cream.
- In a skillet, melt butter, then add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch, cooking until thick.
- Beat unsalted butter, gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cooled caramel, and cinnamon until fluffy.
- Assemble the cake with layers of frosting and apple filling, chilling for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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