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Apple Cake with Caramel Frosting

apple cake recipe
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Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup milk, room temperature
  • 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and diced
  • For the caramel frosting:
  • 1 cup caramel sauce
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three portions, alternating with half the milk between each addition. Mix on low speed just until combined after each addition.
  6. Gently fold in the diced apples using a rubber spatula.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy, about 1 minute.
  11. Add the caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
  12. If the frosting seems too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until reaching desired consistency.
  13. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the caramel frosting over the top and sides.
  14. Allow the frosting to set for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith that hold their shape during baking.
  • Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the smoothest batter.
  • The unfrosted cake can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months.
  • For an extra-special presentation, reserve 2-3 tablespoons of caramel sauce to drizzle over the frosted cake just before serving.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cake caramel frosting, apple cake recipe, caramel frosting recipe, dessert frosting ideas, baking apple desserts, fall dessert, caramel apple dessert

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