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Apple Pecan Cake, Caramel Glaze

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.
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Apple Pecan Cake, Caramel Glaze
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup of roughly chopped pecan halves
  • 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon spice
  • 3 medium eggs room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla essence
  • 2 teaspoons of baking soda
  • 3 cups of peeled and diced tart apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties
  • 1 cup of neutral vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon of table salt
  • 2 cups of granulated white sugar
  • 2 cups of plain all-purpose flour

For the Caramel Glaze:

  • ¼ cup of heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup of lightly packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup 1 stick of unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon of 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.