Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Name: Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups peeled, diced apples; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your senses with this moist and flavorful Apple Pecan Cake, topped with a rich caramel glaze. Featuring tender chunks of juicy apples and crunchy pecans, this dessert is the perfect blend of sweet and nutty, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or simple family dinners. Elevate your baking game with this easy-to-make cake that promises to impress everyone at your table!

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2025-11-26T14:06:35.246Z

This Apple Pecan Cake combines the comforting flavors of autumn with the richness of caramel to create a dessert that is both satisfying and memorable.

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Apple Pecan Cake is an excellent choice for a variety of gatherings. Whether you're hosting a festive holiday dinner, a casual family get-together, or a potluck event, this cake is sure to be a hit. Its moist texture and delightful flavor combination appeals to both kids and adults, making it a universally loved treat. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on your guests rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

One of the standout features of this Apple Pecan Cake is its ability to be made ahead of time. You can bake the cake in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just whip up the caramel glaze shortly before serving for that extra touch of warmth and decadence. This not only saves time but also enhances your entertaining experience.

Understanding the Flavor Profile

The blend of sweet apples and crunchy pecans creates a beautiful harmony of flavors in this cake. The apples contribute natural sweetness and moisture, while the pecans add an earthy crunch that elevates each bite. Combined with warm spices like cinnamon, every slice offers a delightful taste experience that evokes the comfort of home-cooked desserts.

The caramel glaze is another layer of flavor that brings this cake to the next level. Its rich and creamy texture complements the apple and pecan flavors perfectly, creating a balance that is both indulgent and satisfying. It’s the finishing touch that transforms a simple cake into a showstopper.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Apple Pecan Cake, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and precision can make all the difference in texture and taste. When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy. This small detail prevents the cake from becoming too dense.

Additionally, mashing or finely dicing the apples will help distribute their flavor throughout the cake, ensuring each slice is packed with that delicious apple taste. Don’t skip the step of folding the apples and pecans into the batter gently; this helps maintain the cake's light and airy texture.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups peeled, diced apples
1 cup chopped pecans

For the Caramel Glaze

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare Caramel Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.

Glaze the Cake

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle the caramel glaze over the cake before serving.

Let the glaze set for a few minutes and enjoy your delicious Apple Pecan Cake!

Serving Suggestions

Apple Pecan Cake can be served either warm or at room temperature. For a delightful twist, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess complements the cake's rich flavors and adds an extra touch of indulgence. Alternatively, enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.

For a more festive presentation, dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving or garnish with extra pecans. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for aesthetic appeal, making it an eye-catching dessert for any table setting.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Apple Pecan Cake, rest assured that it stores well for several days. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature, and then reheat lightly if desired.

Variations to Consider

While the classic Apple Pecan Cake is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment with different mix-ins and flavors. Adding raisins or cranberries can introduce a new dimension of sweetness, while spices like nutmeg or ginger can enhance the warm flavor profile. For nut-free options, you can simply omit the pecans and perhaps substitute them with sunflower seeds for a slight crunch.

Alternatively, you can try a cream cheese frosting instead of caramel glaze for a tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the cake. Adapting the recipe allows you to create a personal favorite while keeping the delicious apple and vanilla base intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts?

Yes, walnuts or almonds would work well as substitutes for pecans.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.