There’s nothing like a slice of Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze to satisfy that fall dessert craving. This cake combines the tartness of apples with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans, all topped with a silky caramel glaze that takes it to a whole new level of indulgence. It’s the perfect dessert for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just because you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting.

I first made this cake for Thanksgiving, and it quickly became a family favorite. The best part? It’s easy to make, yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Let's get baking!

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

This Apple Pecan Cake isn’t just delicious – it’s a comforting dessert that will quickly find a spot in your regular recipe rotation.

First, the flavor is unbeatable. The combination of sweet apples, earthy pecans, and a rich caramel glaze gives this cake a depth and warmth that’s hard to resist. It tastes like fall in every bite.

Second, it’s easy to make with pantry staples. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or equipment; a mixing bowl, whisk, and 9x13-inch baking pan will do the trick. The steps are simple, making it a great recipe even if you’re a beginner baker.

Another reason to love this cake is that it’s incredibly moist and stays fresh for days. The apples keep it tender, and the caramel glaze helps lock in the moisture, so you can enjoy it over several days.

Finally, the caramel glaze is a showstopper. It adds a lovely, glossy finish and soaks into the cake, giving each slice an extra layer of sweetness. A warm slice with a drizzle of that glaze is pure dessert bliss!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this cake lies in its simple ingredients, each one adding a distinct flavor and texture that makes this dessert irresistible.

Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold up well during baking. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and the caramel glaze beautifully.
Pecans: Toasted pecans bring a rich, nutty crunch to the cake. If pecans aren’t available, walnuts are a good alternative and add a similar texture and flavor.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener adds a hint of molasses, enhancing the cake’s moistness and giving it a warm, caramel-like depth.
Warm Spices (Cinnamon and Nutmeg): These spices add that cozy, autumnal flavor that pairs so well with apples. Cinnamon is essential, while a pinch of nutmeg elevates the cake without overpowering it.
Caramel Glaze: Made with butter, brown sugar, and cream, this glaze adds a luscious finish that makes the cake extra special. It’s easy to prepare and gives the cake a lovely, glossy top.

You'll also need a 9x13-inch baking pan and a small saucepan for the caramel glaze. These basic tools help create a perfectly baked cake and a smooth, creamy glaze.

How To Make This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

Making this cake is straightforward, and the results are well worth it! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to walk you through the process.

Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. This combination provides the base of your cake.
Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, lightly beat 2 large eggs and add ¾ cup of vegetable oil and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring just until combined.
Fold in Apples and Pecans: Add 2 cups of chopped apples and 1 cup of chopped pecans into the batter, folding them in gently. This ensures that every bite has pieces of apple and pecan.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, with a slight spring to the touch.
Prepare the Caramel Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of butter and stir in ½ cup of brown sugar and ¼ cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until smooth.
Glaze the Cake: When the cake has cooled slightly (about 10 minutes), pour the warm caramel glaze over the top. Let the glaze soak into the cake for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Options

This cake stays delicious and moist, so you can enjoy it for days. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness:

Room Temperature: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature, perfect if you’re planning to enjoy it over a weekend.
Refrigerator: If you’d like it to last longer, cover the cake and place it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. The caramel glaze will set slightly but still tastes delicious.
Freezing: This cake also freezes well. Slice it into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature and warm it slightly for that fresh-baked flavor.

To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, freshly baked experience!

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is quite versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

Swap Pecans for Walnuts: Walnuts offer a similar crunch and flavor, making them an excellent substitute for pecans if needed.
Add Raisins or Cranberries: For a hint of sweetness and a pop of color, mix in ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries. They pair wonderfully with the apples and nuts.
Use Whole Wheat Flour: For a slightly healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. It adds a bit of nuttiness and extra fiber without compromising the cake's texture.
Try Different Spices: If you enjoy experimenting, try adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a bolder, spicier flavor profile.
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions and works well with gluten-free flours that are designed for baking.

Whether you’re making this for a family gathering, a cozy treat at home, or even as a gift, this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!