There's something truly magical about the smell of Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze filling your kitchen on a chilly autumn day. This cozy, spiced cake combines tender apples, crunchy pecans, and a decadent caramel glaze for a dessert that's both comforting and impressive.

I first made this cake when looking for a way to use up some extra apples from an orchard trip. Since then, it’s become a go-to treat for fall gatherings, and everyone from kids to grandparents loves it. Let’s dive into why this cake deserves a spot on your dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is everything you want in a seasonal dessert: moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

First, it’s packed with the delicious flavors of fresh apples and pecans. The apples make the cake incredibly moist, while the pecans add a delightful crunch that keeps each bite interesting.

Second, the caramel glaze is a game-changer. It’s rich, buttery, and drizzles over the top beautifully, soaking slightly into the cake to create an ultra-satisfying flavor in every bite.

Third, this cake is so easy to make. You don’t need a mixer or fancy tools – just a mixing bowl and a few staple ingredients. It’s the ideal dessert for a last-minute treat or a cozy weekend baking session.

Finally, it’s perfect for gatherings. This cake can easily be made ahead, and the flavors only get better as it sits, making it an excellent choice for parties or holiday feasts.

Ingredients Note

The ingredients for this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze are simple yet essential for building that cozy flavor. Here’s a closer look at what makes each component shine:

Apples: Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. These apples hold their shape well during baking and bring a natural sweetness to the cake. Dice them into small, bite-sized pieces so that they distribute evenly.
Pecans: The pecans add a lovely crunch and earthy richness to the cake. I like to toast them lightly beforehand to bring out even more flavor, but this step is optional.
All-purpose flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly here, giving the cake structure without making it too dense. If you want to add a bit more warmth, you could substitute part of the flour with whole-wheat flour for a rustic touch.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices are essential for creating that cozy, autumnal flavor. They complement the apples beautifully without overpowering them.
Caramel glaze: The caramel glaze is a simple blend of butter, brown sugar, cream, and vanilla. You’ll cook it briefly to thicken, creating a smooth, pourable glaze that pairs perfectly with the cake.

For this recipe, you’ll only need basic kitchen tools: a mixing bowl, a whisk, a baking pan (8x8 or 9x9 inches works well), and a small saucepan for the caramel glaze.

How To Make This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Making this cake is as enjoyable as eating it! Here’s how to do it:

Preheat and prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your baking pan. This helps ensure an even bake and makes removing the cake a breeze.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps distribute the spices evenly, so you get that wonderful warm flavor in each bite.
Prepare the wet ingredients and apples: In another bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and oil until smooth. Add in your diced apples and chopped pecans, stirring until they’re well-coated. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden-brown and have a slightly springy top.
Prepare the caramel glaze: While the cake cools, make the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add brown sugar and cream. Stir until smooth and bring to a gentle boil for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
Glaze the cake: Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the caramel glaze over the top, letting it seep into the cake. This step gives the cake an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful, glossy finish.

This cake comes together in under an hour and has a simple elegance that will impress anyone lucky enough to try it!

Storage Options

This cake stores beautifully, which means you can enjoy it for days!

At room temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The caramel glaze will keep it moist and flavorful.
In the fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent drying out. The cake is delicious cold or warmed slightly in the microwave.
Freezing: You can also freeze the cake without the glaze for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and make the glaze fresh to drizzle over the top.

For reheating, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that freshly-baked feel.

Variations and Substitutions

This cake is delightfully versatile, so feel free to make it your own! Here are a few ideas:

Add some extra spice: If you love a spicier cake, add a touch of ground cloves or allspice. It’ll bring out even more of those cozy autumn flavors.
Switch up the nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try using walnuts or hazelnuts. Both add a lovely texture and pair beautifully with apples.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with structure.
Dairy-free option: Swap the butter and cream in the caramel glaze with a plant-based butter and coconut cream. The coconut flavor adds a unique twist that complements the apples nicely.
Add dried fruit: A handful of raisins or dried cranberries mixed into the batter will add a burst of sweetness and color.

With its tender apple cake base, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel glaze, this Apple Pecan Cake is truly a celebration of fall flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it warm out of the oven or with a cozy cup of tea the next day, each bite is sure to bring a bit of seasonal magic.