If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the warmth and coziness of fall, this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is the perfect choice. With its combination of tart Granny Smith apples, crunchy pecans, and a rich, buttery caramel glaze, this cake strikes the ideal balance between sweet, nutty, and fruity. The moist texture of the cake, thanks to the finely chopped apples and oil-based batter, creates a deliciously tender crumb, while the caramel glaze adds a touch of decadence with every bite. This dessert is not only great for family gatherings and fall celebrations, but it’s also simple enough to make for a special weeknight treat.

Photo bypinterest

Apples and pecans are a classic pairing, especially when enhanced by the warm notes of cinnamon and vanilla. In this recipe, we take advantage of Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the caramel glaze and the buttery richness of the cake. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this Apple Pecan Cake is guaranteed to become a fall favorite in your home.

A Brief History of Apple Desserts and Caramel Glaze

Apple desserts have long been a part of American culinary tradition, especially in the fall when apples are at their peak. From apple pies to crisps and cakes, the versatility of apples makes them a popular choice in countless recipes. This cake, with its combination of apples and pecans, reflects the flavors of Southern baking, where nuts like pecans are often incorporated into desserts. The caramel glaze, with its buttery richness, adds an indulgent twist to the traditional apple cake, making it a dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.

Photo byChloe RidgwayonUnsplash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

This Apple Pecan Cake is incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the combination of cooking oil and finely chopped apples in the batter. The oil keeps the cake tender and soft, while the apples add natural sweetness and moisture. Pecans provide a delightful crunch, adding texture and a nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully. The caramel glaze, made with butter, brown sugar, and milk, creates a rich and silky finish that coats the cake and enhances the flavors even more. You’ll love how the glaze drips down the sides of the cake, adding both visual appeal and irresistible flavor.

This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or fall celebrations. The cake’s rustic charm and rich flavors will impress your guests, while the caramel glaze adds an extra layer of indulgence that elevates the dessert to new heights.

Photo bypinterest

Nutritional Information for Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze (Per Serving, Serves 10)  

• • Calories: 480 kcal  
  • Protein: 6g  
  • Fat: 28g  
  • Carbohydrates: 52g  
  • Fiber: 3g  
  • Sugar: 36g  
  • Sodium: 290mg

Serving Suggestions to Make Your Apple Pecan Cake Even More Special

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is best served slightly warm, allowing the caramel glaze to ooze over each slice. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the cake’s sweet and nutty flavors. For added flair, you can garnish each slice with a few extra pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This cake is perfect for any fall occasion, but adding a little something extra will make it even more special.

Storage Information for Your Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you refrigerate the cake, let it come to room temperature before serving, or warm it briefly in the microwave for an extra soft and tender texture. The caramel glaze may thicken in the fridge but will soften again as the cake warms.

Extra Fun Tip for Taking Your Apple Pecan Cake to the Next Level

For a deeper flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the cake batter. Simply spread the pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly browned. Toasting the pecans enhances their natural nuttiness and adds an extra layer of flavor to the cake. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt to the caramel glaze for a salted caramel twist that perfectly balances the sweetness.

Photo bypinterest

Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Ingredients:  

• 1½ cups cooking oil  
• 2 cups granulated sugar  
• 4 large eggs  
• 3 cups all-purpose flour  
• 1 teaspoon baking soda  
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon  
• 1 teaspoon salt  
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract  
• 3½ cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely chopped (about 3-4 apples)  
• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped  

For the Caramel Glaze:  

• ¾ cup unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks)  
• 1 cup light brown sugar  
• ¼ cup whole milk  
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:  

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or a similar-sized cake pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

4. Stir in the vanilla extract, chopped apples, and pecans. The batter will be thick and chunky due to the apples and nuts, but this will create a moist and flavorful cake.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and spread it out evenly.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. While the cake is cooling, prepare the caramel glaze. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

8. Allow the caramel glaze to cool for a few minutes until it thickens to a pourable consistency. Once the cake is cool, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

9. Slice and serve the cake with extra caramel glaze drizzled on each slice. Enjoy!

Photo bypinterest

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is the ultimate fall dessert, combining the sweet, tart flavors of apples with the nutty crunch of pecans and a rich, buttery caramel glaze. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.