Caramel Pecan Apple Cake – A Fall Favorite with a Buttery Crunch!
If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the warmth and comfort of fall, this Caramel Pecan Apple Cake is your next baking triumph. Moist, rich, and packed with apple chunks and warm spices, this cake is crowned with toasted pecans and a silky caramel glaze that drips down the sides like pure golden decadence.
Whether you're serving it at a holiday table or enjoying it with a hot drink on a crisp afternoon, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
🍎 Ingredients:
For the Cake:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ tsp baking soda
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground nutmeg
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ cup brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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2 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
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½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Caramel Glaze:
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½ cup brown sugar
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¼ cup heavy cream
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Topping:
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Whole toasted pecans
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Chopped walnuts or additional pecans
🧁 Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or bundt pan.
2. Make the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in the vanilla and sour cream.
3. Combine & Fold:
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using).
4. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
5. Prepare the Caramel Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat until it begins to bubble. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, remove from heat, and stir in vanilla and salt.
6. Decorate:
Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the warm caramel glaze over the top. Decorate with whole pecans and chopped nuts around the top edge.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
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Swap apples with pears for a different fruit twist.
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Add a dash of maple syrup to the caramel for extra flavor.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
💬 Final Thoughts:
This Caramel Pecan Apple Cake isn’t just a dessert — it’s a celebration of fall flavors and comfort. The tender crumb, gooey caramel topping, and nutty crunch make it unforgettable. Serve it as a show-stopping centerpiece or a sweet afternoon indulgence — either way, it’s bound to become a seasonal tradition in your kitchen.