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apple cake with caramel frosting recipe

Apple Cake with Caramel Frosting

Avatar photoGrace Ovendale
This apple cake with caramel frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the rich taste of caramel, making it perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups peeled and chopped apples

Caramel Frosting

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and flour. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside for later use.
  • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the cake tender.
  • Gently fold in the chopped apples using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Caramel Frosting

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring until smooth and caramel-like.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until smooth and thick.

Frost the Cake

  • Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the caramel frosting evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula.
  • Slice the cake into pieces and serve. Enjoy the blend of apple and caramel flavors in every bite.

Storage

  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing. Toss apples in flour to prevent sinking.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use any firm, tart apples like Fuji or Gala.
How to Serve: Best served at room temperature or slightly warm.
Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Frosting can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
Keyword apple cake with caramel frosting, caramel apple cake, easy apple cake recipe