Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug straight from the kitchen, you absolutely need to try Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe. This cake is the perfect balance of tender apples, crunchy walnuts, and rich caramel that creates a luscious combination of flavors and textures. Every bite offers a delightful explosion of fall-inspired goodness, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or the grand finale to your dinner, this cake brings a sweet and comforting touch that feels like home in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to prepare. Each element plays a starring role: apples bring natural sweetness and moisture, walnuts add satisfying crunch and earthiness, and the caramel glaze ties it all together with a glossy, decadent finish.

• 2 medium apples (peeled and diced): Provides juicy sweetness and tender texture that soaks into the cake.
• 1 cup (150g) chopped walnuts: Adds a toasty crunch and subtle nuttiness in every bite.
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar: Essential for the cake’s sweetness and helps achieve a light, fluffy crumb.
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter: Softened butter ensures richness and smooth texture throughout the cake.
• 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together, creating the perfect cake body.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cake its lovely rise and tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses aromatic warmth, elevating the cake’s flavor.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) caramel sauce: The crowning glory that adds gooey, buttery sweetness as a glaze.
• Optional: fresh cinnamon for sprinkling: Adds a hint of spicy warmth when dusted on top.

How to Make Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease a 9-inch round cake pan or coat it with non-stick spray – this simple prep makes removing the cake a breeze while keeping it perfectly intact.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Mixture

In a large bowl, toss together the diced apples, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will bring bursts of flavor and texture throughout the cake, so keep it ready while you mix the batter.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This crucial step creates a light texture in the cake, so don’t rush it – give it a good 3 to 5 minutes until creamy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in each egg one at a time to fully incorporate them, then add the vanilla extract. The eggs help build structure, while the vanilla gives a fragrant note to the entire cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour and baking powder in another bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so stop as soon as no dry streaks remain.

Step 6: Incorporate Apple Mixture

Fold the apple and walnut mixture gently into the batter. This ensures that the fruit and nuts are distributed evenly without deflating the batter’s airy texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Caramel Glaze

While the cake cools, gently warm the caramel sauce over low heat until it becomes pourable. Drizzle the luscious glaze evenly across the top of the cooled cake, spreading it out for full coverage.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Finish by sprinkling fresh cinnamon on top if you like, then let the cake settle before slicing. Serve it as is or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please everyone.

How to Serve Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling a bit of fresh cinnamon over the caramel glaze adds a warming aroma and a cozy touch. You can also scatter some extra chopped walnuts or thin apple slices on top to amp up the visual appeal and texture variety.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream for a cool contrast, or a hot cup of chai tea that echoes the cake’s warm spices. Fresh berries also provide a tart and refreshing complement, balancing the cake’s rich sweetness effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices drizzled with extra caramel and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive twist, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with edible flowers or candied nuts. Layered mini versions make perfect bite-sized desserts for parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cake fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This maintains the cake’s moistness and keeps the caramel glaze from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its delicate texture.

Reheating

To warm leftover cake, either microwave a slice for 10 to 15 seconds or place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. The oven method helps crisp up the edges lightly while keeping the inside soft and moist.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds can be great alternatives, offering a different texture and flavor, though walnuts provide the classic taste and crunch for this recipe.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples ensures a smoother texture in the cake, but if you prefer a bit more rustic texture and extra fiber, you can leave the skins on just be sure they’re washed well.

What type of caramel sauce works best?

A good quality store-bought or homemade caramel sauce both work wonderfully. Just choose one that’s pourable and rich without being overly runny to create that perfect glaze.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Keep an eye on the cake’s texture as you bake, and it might need a slightly longer baking time.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking as it can dry out the cake.

Final Thoughts

Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe is a heartwarming dessert that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Its inviting flavors and satisfying textures come together in a way that feels like a special occasion every time. I promise, once you make this cake, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to some homemade cozy sweetness today!

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