Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze: A Delicious Indulgence

Introduction

If you’re looking for a cake that perfectly marries the flavors of fall with a delightful sweetness, look no further than this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. Each bite is a delicious blend of moist cake, tart Granny Smith apples, crunchy pecans, and a luscious caramel glaze. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups cooking oil
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 cups Granny Smith apples (approximately 3-4 apples, peeled and chopped into small pieces)
  • 1 cup pecans (chopped finely)

For the Caramel Glaze:

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks)
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s break down the nutritional information for the Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze, along with its Weight Watchers points:

  • Servings: 12
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 57g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 38g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Weight Watchers Points: Approximately 15 points per serving

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of cooking oil, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 4 large eggs. Using an electric mixer, mix the ingredients on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and well-blended. This process typically takes about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial as it ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake. Next, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.

Step 5: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Gently fold in the 3 1/2 cups of chopped Granny Smith apples and 1 cup of finely chopped pecans using a spatula. The apples not only provide moisture but also a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Pan

Pour the batter into a generously greased and floured tube pan. If you prefer, you can also use two loaf pans instead of a tube pan. Make sure to spread the batter evenly to ensure consistent baking.

Step 7: Baking

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake at 325°F for approximately 1 hour. Begin checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready to be removed from the oven. If using loaf pans, check for doneness a little earlier, around 50 minutes.

Making the Caramel Glaze

Step 8: Melt the Butter

While the cake is baking, you can prepare the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt 3/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. It’s important to melt the butter gently to avoid burning.

Step 9: Combine Ingredients

Once the butter has melted, stir in 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1/4 cup of milk. Mix until well combined.

Step 10: Boil and Simmer

Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and continue stirring constantly. Let the mixture boil for about 10 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 11: Add Vanilla

After 10 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Allow the glaze to cool slightly; it will thicken as it cools.

Step 12: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled for about 15 minutes, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy

Let the cake sit for a few minutes to allow the glaze to set. Slice and serve this decadent Apple Pecan Cake at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Useful Tips

  • Choosing Apples: Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, but feel free to mix in other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness.
  • Storing the Cake: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.
  • Freezing: If you’d like to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. The combination of tender cake, crunchy nuts, and rich caramel glaze creates a flavor profile that will have your guests asking for seconds. Perfect for fall gatherings, family celebrations, or a simple afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Happy baking!