A warmly spiced dessert brimming with tender apple pieces and crunchy pecans, this moist cake is crowned with a buttery caramel glaze. It offers a rich, satisfying bite perfect for chilly evenings or any time a comforting treat is desired.
3cupsof peeled and diced tart applesGranny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties
1cupof neutral vegetable oil
1teaspoonof table salt
2cupsof granulated white sugar
2cupsof plain all-purpose flour
For the Caramel Glaze:
¼cupof heavy whipping cream
1cupof lightly packed brown sugar
½cup1 stick of unsalted butter
1teaspoonof vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or grease thoroughly with butter.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to combine.
Pour in the vegetable oil, crack in the eggs, and add the vanilla extract. Stir using a spatula or wooden spoon until a dense, cohesive batter forms.
Fold the diced apples and chopped pecans into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
As the cake bakes—or immediately after removing it from the oven—prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and cream and continue stirring while bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, whisking continuously. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
While the cake is still warm, pour the hot caramel glaze evenly across the surface. Allow the glaze to soak in and settle slightly before serving.
Notes
This cake stores well covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for longer freshness. Reheat individual portions gently before serving for the best experience.