Few things capture the cozy, inviting feeling of autumn quite like an apple pecan cake topped with a rich caramel glaze. This recipe combines the tartness of Granny Smith apples, the nutty crunch of pecans, and the warmth of cinnamon, all beautifully brought together in a tender, moist cake. Topped with a buttery caramel glaze, each bite is a treat that’s perfect for any fall gathering, holiday table, or simply to enjoy on a chilly evening.

Why This Cake is a Must-Try

This cake is packed with texture, flavor, and fall charm. The diced apples not only bring sweetness but also help keep the cake incredibly moist. The pecans add a layer of crunch, while the caramel glaze drizzled on top provides a rich, buttery finish that complements the natural flavors of the apples and pecans. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will wow your friends and family and might just become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Apple Pecan Cake

For the Cake

Vegetable Oil: 3/4 cup – Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender.
Granulated Sugar: 2 cups – Sweetens the cake and balances the tart apples.
Large Eggs: 4 – Adds richness and structure.
All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups – The base for a soft, fluffy cake texture.
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon – Helps the cake rise.
Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds a cozy, warming spice.
Sea Salt: 1/2 teaspoon – Enhances the other flavors.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons – Adds depth and rounds out the flavor.
Granny Smith Apples: 3 1/2 cups, diced (about 3-4 apples) – Provides tartness and natural sweetness.
Pecans: 1 cup, chopped – Adds crunch and nuttiness.

For the Caramel Glaze

Unsalted Butter: 1/3 cup – The base for a creamy, rich glaze.
Light Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup – Adds a warm sweetness to the glaze.
Milk: 1/2 cup – Creates the perfect consistency for the glaze.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Complements the caramel flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This lower temperature allows the cake to bake evenly, resulting in a moist, tender crumb.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of vegetable oil, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 4 large eggs. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and well-incorporated. The mixture should look thick and pale, indicating that the eggs and sugar are well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Sifting helps keep the dry ingredients light and ensures a uniform, tender texture in the baked cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Mix until the batter is smooth, but be careful not to overmix this can make the cake dense. Once blended, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 5: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Carefully fold in the 3 1/2 cups of diced Granny Smith apples and 1 cup of chopped pecans. The apples add moisture and a burst of flavor, while the pecans provide a pleasant crunch. Make sure the apples and pecans are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent texture and flavor in each bite.

Step 6: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Generously grease and flour a tube pan or two cake pans to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), spreading it evenly with a spatula. A tube pan works best to give the cake a beautiful, tall shape, but regular cake pans work fine too if that’s what you have.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. After about 50 minutes, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done. For cake pans, it may be wise to check at 50 minutes, as they could bake a bit faster than a tube pan.

Step 8: Prepare the Caramel Glaze

While the cake cools, start on the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt 1/3 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of light brown sugar and 1/2 cup of milk, stirring until combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 9: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, transfer it to a wire rack. Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the top, allowing it to soak in and cover the cake beautifully. Let the cake cool completely before serving to allow the glaze to set and the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

With Ice Cream: Serve a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Fall Gatherings: This cake is perfect for family gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or any autumn celebration.
As a Morning Treat: A small slice with coffee or tea makes for a delightful breakfast or mid-morning snack.

Tips for the Best Apple Pecan Cake

Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for baking, as their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake.
Add a Dash of Nutmeg: For an extra hint of warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Toast the Pecans: For even more flavor, lightly toast the pecans before folding them into the batter.
Store Properly: This cake keeps well for a few days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Oil?

Yes! While vegetable oil is neutral, you can also use coconut or olive oil for a unique flavor twist.

Do I Need to Peel the Apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on can add extra fiber and texture if you prefer.

Can I Substitute the Pecans?

Absolutely. Walnuts are a great alternative if you’re not a fan of pecans.

How Long Will This Cake Keep?

Stored in an airtight container, this cake will keep for up to 4 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.

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

This apple pecan cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a little piece of fall on a plate. It’s moist, sweet, and perfectly spiced, with layers of flavor from the tart apples, crunchy pecans, and warm cinnamon. The caramel glaze, with its buttery, slightly tangy richness, takes it over the top and makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a lover of apples, nuts, or caramel, this cake will satisfy every craving.