Introduction
Indulging in comfort food often leads us to delightful desserts that warm both the heart and the palate. One such treat is the Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze, a perfect blend of moist cake, crunchy pecans, and rich caramel that embodies the essence of fall. This cake serves as a wonderful centerpiece for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a simple afternoon tea.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the cake:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of baking soda
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup of vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
– 2 cups of peeled and diced apples
– 1 cup of chopped pecans
For the caramel glaze:
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Prep Time
Prep time for this decadent dessert is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to gather your ingredients and prepare the batter just in time for baking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is around 40-45 minutes, depending on your oven’s specifics. The total time required to make this delicious Apple Pecan Cake, including preparation and baking, is about 1 hour. This recipe yields a delightful cake that serves approximately 10 to 12 people, making it a fantastic option for sharing.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, and oil until well combined.
Add Apples and Pecans
Fold in the chopped apples and pecans into the wet mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the cake is baking, combine butter, brown sugar, and cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Glaze the Cake
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Serve
Let the cake cool completely before slicing into squares. Serve as desired.
Notes
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for a longer shelf life.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious dessert.
Substitution Tips
You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred. Additionally, use any sweet apples, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a flavorful twist.
Cook techniques
Mixing Techniques
To ensure a fluffy texture, combine wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together.
Caramel Glaze Preparation
Cook the caramel glaze slowly to avoid burning, stirring continuously until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Layering the Cake
Alternate between spreading the cake batter and adding chopped apples and pecans to create even distribution.
Baking Tips
Use a toothpick to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Cooling the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a short period before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
FAQ
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans for a similar texture and flavor.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be baked ahead of time and frozen. Just ensure it is properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make a gluten-free version of the cake.
What can I use instead of caramel glaze?
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a cream cheese frosting can be used as an alternative to the caramel glaze.
Conclusion
This apple pecan cake with caramel glaze is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines flavors and textures. The moist cake, nutty pecans, and rich caramel create a harmonious treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether shared with friends and family or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, this cake is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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