Introduction
Caramel apple cake is the perfect dessert for fall. The sweetness of the caramel complements the tartness of the apples perfectly, making this cake a real crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easy to follow and will yield a moist and delicious cake that is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 2 large eggs
- 200g granulated sugar
- 120ml vegetable oil
- 120ml milk
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 120g unsalted butter
- 120g brown sugar
- 120ml heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the cake pan
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease an 8-inch cake pan with butter and flour, or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and allspice.
Step 3: Mix the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and thick. Add the oil and milk and mix well.
Step 4: Combine the wet and dry ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
Step 5: Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the caramel sauce
While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 7: Cool and decorate the cake
When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Pour the caramel sauce over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides. Serve and enjoy!
Variations
- Vegan version: To make this cake vegan, replace the eggs with 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) and replace the milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk of your choice. Use vegan butter and cream in the caramel sauce.
- Gluten-free version: To make this cake gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Individual servings: Instead of making one large cake, you can make individual servings by pouring the batter into muffin tins and adjusting the baking time accordingly.
- Apple crisp topping: For an extra crunch, sprinkle an apple crisp topping over the caramel sauce. To make the topping, mix 1/2 cup oats, 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup melted butter together. Sprinkle the mixture over the caramel sauce before serving.
Conclusion
Caramel apple cake is a delicious and easy dessert that is perfect for fall. The combination of sweet caramel and tart apples is irresistible, and this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to serve at a dinner party or just want a sweet treat to enjoy on a cool evening, this cake is the perfect choice. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
FAQ
Can I use any type of apple for the Caramel Apple Cake?
Yes, you can use any type of apple for this recipe. However, we recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firm texture.
Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before using.
Can I substitute the buttermilk with regular milk?
No, buttermilk is an essential ingredient in this recipe. You can make your own buttermilk by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake, if it comes out clean, the cake is done. Another way to check is to gently press the top of the cake, if it springs back, it’s done.
Can I use a bundt pan instead of a cake pan?
Yes, you can use a bundt pan instead of a cake pan. However, make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly as bundt pans usually take longer to bake.
Can I make this cake without the caramel sauce?
Yes, you can make the cake without the caramel sauce. It will still be delicious, but the caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness to the cake.
How do I store the leftover cake?
Store the leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake slices for up to a month.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making your own. However, homemade caramel sauce has a richer flavor and is not difficult to make.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Yes, you can add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Can I use a different type of frosting instead of the cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can use a different type of frosting such as buttercream or whipped cream. However, cream cheese frosting pairs well with the flavors of the caramel apple cake.
