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Apple pecan cake with caramel glaze in white baking dish, topped with pecans and caramel drizzle.

APPLE PECAN CAKE WITH CARAMEL GLAZE

Sana Umer
This apple pecan cake is soft, moist, and packed with warm spices, crunchy pecans, and sweet apples. A rich caramel glaze adds extra sweetness and flavor. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday desserts, or anytime you crave a comforting homemade treat!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 people
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups apples peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 cup pecans chopped

For the Caramel Glaze:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

STEP NO.1: PREHEAT OVEN

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch bundt or cake pan.

STEP NO.2: MIX DRY INGREDIENTS

  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

STEP NO.3: COMBINE WET INGREDIENTS

  • In another bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in buttermilk.

STEP NO.4: ADD APPLES AND PECANS

  • Gradually fold in dry ingredients. Then, gently stir in diced apples and chopped pecans.

STEP NO.5: BAKE THE CAKE

  • Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

STEP NO.6: MAKE CARAMEL GLAZE

  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and add vanilla.

STEP NO.7: GLAZE AND SERVE

  • Let the cake cool slightly, then drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the top. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Apple Choice: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor.
  • Pecan Substitute: Walnuts can be used instead.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Bake the cake a day ahead and glaze before serving.
  • Extra Moisture: Add ¼ cup applesauce for an even softer cake.
  • Spiced Apple Cake: Add ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth.
  • Chocolate Apple Cake: Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips.
  • Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap caramel for a cream cheese drizzle.
  • Maple Glaze: Replace caramel with maple syrup-based glaze.
Keyword apple pecan cake, caramel glaze cake, fall dessert, homemade apple cake, moist apple cake