There's nothing quite like the warm, inviting scent of a freshly baked apple pecan cake filling your kitchen. This delightful dessert combines the comforting flavors of spiced apples, crunchy pecans, and a buttery caramel glaze that’s nothing short of irresistible.

I first baked this cake for a family gathering during fall, hoping to capture the season's essence in a single bite. It quickly became a crowd favorite, with requests to share the recipe at every turn. Let me show you how to make this delicious treat your new go-to dessert.

Why You'll Love This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Get ready to meet your new favorite dessert. This apple pecan cake is a perfect blend of cozy, sweet, and nutty flavors that are sure to impress everyone at the table.

First, it’s incredibly moist and flavorful. The grated apples infuse the cake with natural sweetness and a tender texture, while the pecans add a delightful crunch in every bite.

It’s surprisingly easy to make. Despite its bakery-quality appearance, this cake comes together with basic pantry ingredients and a straightforward process.

The caramel glaze takes it over the top. Rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet, it coats the cake in a shiny layer of decadence that’s impossible to resist.

Best of all, it’s a versatile dessert. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dinner party or enjoy a slice with your morning coffee. Either way, it’s bound to be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

This cake relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a big flavor punch. Let’s break them down.

Apples are the star of the show. Use sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor. Grate them finely to ensure they blend seamlessly into the batter.

Pecans provide texture and a nutty richness. Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor and adds a subtle crunch.

Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and depth. These spices complement the apples perfectly, giving the cake its signature fall flavor.

Brown sugar is key to the cake’s moistness and caramel-like sweetness. Its molasses undertone pairs beautifully with the pecans and glaze.

The caramel glaze is made from butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and a touch of vanilla. Together, these ingredients create a silky topping that elevates the entire dessert.

You’ll also need a sturdy Bundt pan to achieve the cake’s classic shape and even baking. Make sure to grease it well to avoid sticking.

How To Make This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Creating this apple pecan cake is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a dessert that will steal the show.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your Bundt pan. Grease it generously with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring every crevice is covered.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures even distribution of the spices and leavening agents.

In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually fold in the grated apples and chopped pecans.

Slowly combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

While the cake cools, prepare the caramel glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly. Add the heavy cream and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.

Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides. Allow the glaze to set slightly before slicing and serving.

Storage Options

This cake stores beautifully, making it perfect for make-ahead occasions.

For short-term storage, keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Use an airtight cake dome or plastic wrap to lock in freshness.

If you want to store it longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cold temperature keeps the glaze firm and the cake moist.

Freezing is another option. Wrap the cooled, unglazed cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it at room temperature and add the caramel glaze just before serving.

To reheat, microwave slices for 10-15 seconds for a just-baked taste and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This apple pecan cake is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are some creative twists to try.

Swap the pecans for walnuts or even hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor. Almonds work too if you prefer a milder taste.

Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for a burst of fruity sweetness. These pair wonderfully with the apples and spices.

Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger to give the cake a unique twist. A pinch of cloves can also enhance its depth.

For a lighter option, substitute half the oil with applesauce. This reduces the fat content while keeping the cake moist and tender.

If you’re short on time, skip the caramel glaze and dust the cake with powdered sugar. It’s a simpler finish that still looks and tastes amazing.

No matter how you customize it, this apple pecan cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.