Dessert

Caramel Apple Cake

Bysarra August 23, 2025

Short Description

Caramel Apple Cake is a moist and spiced dessert layered with tender apples and topped with a sweet caramel glaze. It captures the flavors of fall in every bite, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy indulgence at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the natural sweetness of apples, all finished with a luscious caramel topping. It is easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and stays moist for days. Whether served warm or chilled, it is a crowd-pleaser that works as both an everyday dessert and a festive centerpiece.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and diced)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Butter or neutral oil
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Sour cream or yogurt (for extra moisture)
Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round or square cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter (or whisk oil) with sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
Mix in sour cream or yogurt until smooth.
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
Gently stir in the diced apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before drizzling with warm caramel sauce.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

Layered cake: Bake in two 8-inch pans and sandwich with caramel buttercream.
Caramel apple upside-down cake: Line the pan with caramel and apple slices before pouring in the batter.
Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for texture.
Extra spice: Include cloves, ginger, or allspice for a bolder flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze the cake (without caramel topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds and drizzle with fresh caramel if desired.

FAQs

What are the best apples for this cake?

Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp balance the sweetness and hold their shape well during baking.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and add the caramel topping just before serving.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely—store-bought caramel works perfectly if you do not want to make homemade caramel.

Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes, replace each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or use a flax egg alternative.

Why is my cake dry?

Overbaking or using too little fat can cause dryness. Be sure to measure carefully and check for doneness early.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes, divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes.

Can I add nuts to the batter?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans pair wonderfully with the apple and caramel flavors.

How do I prevent apples from sinking?

Lightly coat diced apples in flour before folding them into the batter.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time as needed.

Can I serve this cake warm?

Yes, it tastes wonderful warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cake is a rich, moist dessert that beautifully combines spiced apples with buttery caramel. Versatile, comforting, and easy to prepare, it is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or simply treating yourself to a slice of autumn any time of year.

sarra