Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze
A delicious dessert combining sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and a rich caramel glaze. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to fancy dinners.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- ¾ cup oil
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups peeled and chopped Granny Smith apples (3–4 apples)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Caramel Glaze:
- ⅓ cup butter
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease and flour a tube pan or two loaf pans thoroughly. This prevents sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine ¾ cup oil, 2 cups sugar, and 4 eggs.
- Whisk or beat with an electric mixer until smooth and slightly thick.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together:
- 3 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp sea salt
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until fully combined.
- Add 2 tsp vanilla extract and mix just until blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
5. Add Apples and Pecans
- Fold in 3 ½ cups chopped Granny Smith apples and 1 cup chopped pecans.
- Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Prepare the Pan
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s).
- Smooth the top with a spatula if needed.
7. Bake the Cake
- Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes.
- Check for doneness at 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center.
- If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
- Loaf pans may bake faster than a tube pan, so keep an eye on them.
For the Caramel Glaze
1. Make the Glaze
- In a small saucepan, melt ⅓ cup butter over medium heat.
- Stir in ½ cup light brown sugar and ½ cup milk.
- Cook, stirring often, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
2. Add the Glaze to the Cake
- While the cake is still warm in the pan, poke small holes all over the top with a skewer or toothpick.
- Slowly pour the caramel glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
3. Remove and Serve
- Gently loosen the edges of the cake with a spatula and remove it from the pan.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Use Granny Smith Apples: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and glaze.
- Grease the Pan Well: This ensures the cake comes out cleanly.
- Cool Slightly Before Removing: Letting the cake sit allows the glaze to soak in and the cake to firm up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: Apples and pecans add texture and richness.
- Simple Yet Elegant: Perfect for everyday or special occasions.
- Customizable: Swap pecans for walnuts or add a dash of nutmeg for extra warmth.