When the leaves start to fall and there’s a crisp chill in the air, it feels like the perfect time to bake something warm and comforting. This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze checks all the boxes for an autumn dessert. Imagine a cake that’s moist and bursting with flavor from tart Granny Smith apples and nutty pecans, topped with a rich caramel glaze that’s buttery, sweet, and just slightly gooey. It’s the kind of cake that makes you want to wrap yourself in a blanket, pour a cup of tea, and savor every bite. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply a weekend treat, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
I first discovered this recipe during one of those cozy baking afternoons when I wanted to use up some apples that had been sitting in my fruit bowl a little too long. The result was far better than I expected—a cake that was not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Since then, it’s become a tradition in my house every fall, and I’ve even whipped it up for winter holidays because it’s just that versatile. Now, let me walk you through how to make this magical cake, step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Pecan Cake Recipe
This Apple Pecan Cake is so much more than just a dessert—it’s a little slice of comfort and nostalgia. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- It’s incredibly easy to make. The recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, there’s no need for fancy equipment—just a couple of mixing bowls and a baking pan.
- The texture is perfect. The cake is moist and tender, thanks to the fresh apples, with a delightful crunch from the chopped pecans. It’s the kind of cake that melts in your mouth but still has enough texture to keep every bite interesting.
- The caramel glaze is everything. Seriously, this glaze takes the cake (pun intended) to the next level. It’s rich, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet, creating a glossy finish that makes the cake look as good as it tastes.
- It’s crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re serving kids, adults, or picky eaters, this cake hits all the right notes. The combination of flavors is classic and universally loved, so it’s bound to disappear quickly at any gathering.
- It’s versatile. You can serve it as is for a rustic treat, or dress it up with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
Preparation Time and Servings of the Apple Pecan Cake
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, and the baking time is around 60 minutes, so you’ll have a delicious cake ready in under 1.5 hours. It serves 10-12 people, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Calories per serving: Approximately 400
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 18g
Ingredients of the Apple Pecan Cake
For the Cake
- 1½ cups cooking oil (vegetable or canola oil works best)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (add an extra pinch if you love cinnamon as much as I do!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3½ cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely chopped (about 3–4 medium apples)
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped (you can toast them for extra flavor)
For the Caramel Glaze
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions to make the Apple Pecan Cake
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This slightly lower temperature ensures that the cake bakes evenly and doesn’t dry out. Grease and flour a tube pan (my preferred choice) or two loaf pans. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to remove the cake later.
Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooking oil, sugar, and eggs. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the chopped apples and pecans. The batter will be thick, but that’s exactly what you want—it means the cake will be packed with flavor.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s), spreading it out evenly. Place the pan(s) in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to make the star of the show: the caramel glaze. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Keep stirring to prevent burning. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and continue stirring for about 10 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the glaze cool for a few minutes—it should still be pourable but not too runny.
Assemble the Cake
Place your cooled cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Slowly pour the caramel glaze over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a beautifully rustic finish. If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for added texture and visual appeal.
How to Serve the Apple Pecan Cake
This cake is delightful on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate it even further:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a lighter option.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For a holiday touch, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top right before serving.
Additional Tips for Success
- Choose the right apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal because their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and glaze. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stirring just until the ingredients are combined will keep the cake tender and soft.
- Toast the pecans: Toasting brings out their nutty flavor and adds a little extra crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Let the glaze cool slightly: Pouring it too hot can cause it to run off the cake completely, while letting it cool for too long will make it harder to pour. Aim for a warm, syrupy consistency.
- Make it ahead: This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to make it your own:
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans altogether or replace them with raisins for a chewy texture.
- Spiced-Up Cake: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for an extra layer of warmth.
- Healthier Twist: Swap half the oil for unsweetened applesauce to reduce the fat content.
- Chocolate Lovers: Toss in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
Storing and Freezing
To store leftovers, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week—just note that the caramel glaze may soak into the cake slightly, making it even moister. To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.
FAQ
- Can I use a bundt pan instead of a tube pan? Absolutely! Just make sure to grease and flour it well to prevent sticking.
- What if I don’t have pecans? Walnuts make a great substitute, or you can leave out the nuts entirely.
- Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Reheat it gently on the stove before pouring.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is everything you could want in a dessert—easy to make, bursting with fall flavors, and undeniably comforting. I hope you’ll give it a try and share it with the people you love. If you do, don’t forget to tag me in your photos or leave a comment letting me know how it turned out. Happy baking!
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Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a rich and moist dessert perfect for fall gatherings. Featuring tart apples, crunchy pecans, and a homemade buttery caramel glaze, this cake is irresistible for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 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
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
For the Caramel Glaze:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a tube pan.
- Mix oil, sugar, and eggs in a bowl. In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Add vanilla, apples, and pecans to the batter. Pour into the pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.
- Prepare the caramel glaze by melting butter, stirring in brown sugar and milk, and simmering for 10 minutes. Add vanilla.
- Let the cake cool slightly, then pour the glaze over the top.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for the best tart flavor.
- Let the caramel glaze cool slightly before pouring for the perfect consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American