Print

Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 125 reviews

This Caramel Apple Spice Cake is a delightful fusion of tender apple-filled spice cake layers topped with a rich caramel Swiss meringue buttercream. Layered with warm autumnal flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg and finished with luscious homemade caramel, this cake is perfect for fall celebrations and cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

  • 2 cups diced apples (heaping), about 2 medium apples
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Apple Spice Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Caramel

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 150 ml heavy cream, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

Caramel Swiss Meringue Buttercream

  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup caramel (prepared from above)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Apples: In a bowl, toss the diced apples with light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside to macerate while preparing the batter, allowing the flavors to meld and soften the apples slightly.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to ensure even distribution of the spices and leavening agents.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the vegetable oil with the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Form Cake Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Fold in the prepared cinnamon-coated diced apples carefully to distribute evenly throughout the batter without overmixing.
  5. Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter evenly into greased and floured cake pans. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
  6. Make Caramel: In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Cook without stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat carefully and whisk in the heavy cream and unsalted butter until smooth. Allow caramel to cool to room temperature.
  7. Prepare Caramel Swiss Meringue Buttercream: In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg whites and granulated sugar. Place over simmering water and whisk until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C) and sugar dissolves completely. Transfer to a mixer and whip on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form and mixture cools to room temperature. Gradually add the cubed butter, beating until smooth and creamy. Mix in ½ cup of the prepared caramel until fully incorporated.
  8. Assemble the Cake: Layer the cooled cake cakes with caramel Swiss meringue buttercream between layers using half or more of the frosting. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream. Optionally, drizzle extra caramel on top for decoration.
  9. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to set the frosting and deepen the flavors. Bring to room temperature before slicing and serving to enjoy the perfect texture and taste.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
  • Macerating the apples enhances their flavor and moisture within the cake.
  • Be cautious when making caramel as hot sugar can cause burns.
  • Ensure egg whites reach 160°F for food safety in the Swiss meringue buttercream.
  • The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/caramel-apple-spice-cake-recipe/