Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

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A Deliciously Moist Cake with a Rich Caramel Drizzle

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is the perfect dessert to get you into the cozy mood of fall. Every bite is filled with soft, juicy apples, crunchy pecans, and warm cinnamon, all wrapped in a moist, tender cake. But what truly sets this cake apart is the buttery caramel glaze, which soaks into every crevice, creating an irresistible balance of sweetness and spice.

The combination of crisp apples and nutty pecans makes this cake a true seasonal delight. Whether you are serving it for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or just a comforting treat on a chilly evening, this cake will surely become a family favorite.

If you love fall baking, with the rich aromas of cinnamon, caramel, and apples filling your kitchen, then this homemade apple pecan cake is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

  • Packed with Flavor – The combination of fresh apples, pecans, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a deep, warm taste that is perfect for fall.
  • Moist and Tender – Thanks to the oil and juicy apples, this cake stays soft and moist for days.
  • Easy to Make – No complicated steps or fancy techniques—just mix, bake, and drizzle with caramel.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon treat with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
  • That Buttery Caramel Glaze – It adds a decadent touch, making this cake truly irresistible.

Ingredients for Apple Pecan Cake

For the Cake:

  • 1½ cups cooking oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • 2 cups sugar – Sweetens the cake while enhancing the apple and pecan flavors.
  • 4 large eggs – Provides structure and richness.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the cake.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise.
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
  • 3½ cups Granny Smith apples (about 3-4 apples), peeled and chopped – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans – Brings crunch and nutty depth to every bite.

For the Caramel Glaze:

  • ¾ cup butter (1½ sticks) – The base of the rich caramel.
  • 1 cup light brown sugar – Creates the deep, caramelized sweetness.
  • ¼ cup milk – Helps smooth the glaze.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the caramel flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, sugar, and eggs. Beat until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until well incorporated.
  5. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
  6. Gently fold in the chopped apples and pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Grease and flour a tube pan generously to prevent sticking. If you prefer, you can use two loaf pans instead of a tube pan.
  2. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
  3. Bake at 325°F for approximately 1 hour.
  4. Check for doneness at 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If not, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
  5. Once done, remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Glaze

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
  2. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, mixing well.
  3. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, continuing to stir so it doesn’t burn.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  6. Allow the glaze to cool for a few minutes, so it thickens slightly but is still pourable.

Step 4: Glaze the Cake

  1. Place the cooled cake on a serving plate.
  2. Slowly drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the top, letting it soak into the cake and run down the sides.
  3. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Pecan Cake is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with these serving ideas:

  • Warm with Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm caramel.
  • Topped with Whipped Cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream makes it even more decadent.
  • Dusting of Powdered Sugar – For an elegant finishing touch, lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the top.
  • Paired with Coffee or Tea – This cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.

Tips for the Best Apple Pecan Cake

  • Use the Right Apples – Granny Smith apples are the best choice because their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and caramel glaze. However, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well too.
  • Chop Apples Evenly – Cut apples into small, uniform pieces to ensure they bake evenly and distribute flavor throughout the cake.
  • Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the cake dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Let the Cake Cool Before Adding Glaze – If the cake is too warm, the caramel glaze may soak in too much and lose its thick, drippy effect.
  • Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

Making Ahead:

  • You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature. Add the caramel glaze just before serving.

Freezing Instructions:

  • To freeze, wrap the cooled, unglazed cake in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to serve, thaw the cake at room temperature, warm the caramel glaze, and drizzle it over the cake before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a true celebration of fall flavors. The moist texture, warm spices, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel drizzle make this cake an absolute delight in every bite.

Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to become a new seasonal favorite.

Give this irresistible apple pecan cake a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade fall baking.

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