There’s something magical about the scent of apples and spices filling the kitchen, especially when it’s coming from an Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. This moist, tender cake combines the sweetness of fresh apples and the crunch of pecans, all topped with a luscious homemade caramel glaze that drips down the sides, adding even more flavor to each slice.

I first made this recipe as a holiday dessert, and it instantly became a family favorite. The warm, spiced cake with bits of tart apple and toasty pecan is perfect for fall or winter gatherings and is bound to impress anyone lucky enough to try it.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pecan Cake

Get ready to fall in love with this apple pecan cake! Not only is it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

First, the combination of apples and pecans creates a delightful mix of textures. The apples soften as they bake, adding moisture, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. Each bite is bursting with comforting autumn flavors, thanks to the addition of cinnamon and nutmeg.

The caramel glaze truly takes this cake to another level. Made with butter, brown sugar, and cream, this rich sauce brings a deep, buttery sweetness that complements the cake’s flavors perfectly. It’s a treat that’ll have your guests licking their plates!

Even better, this cake comes together quickly and easily. You won’t need any fancy equipment – just a couple of mixing bowls and a whisk will do the trick. It’s a low-fuss, high-reward dessert that anyone can make.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for Thanksgiving or just want a comforting treat on a chilly evening, this apple pecan cake is the answer.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Apple Pecan Cake lies in its wholesome, simple ingredients. Each element plays a unique role in creating a cake that’s perfectly moist, warmly spiced, and loaded with flavor.

Apples: I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well during baking and add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Be sure to peel, core, and chop them into small pieces so they evenly disperse throughout the batter.
Pecans: For a toasty crunch, pecans are the way to go. If you have the time, give them a quick roast in the oven or stovetop for extra depth. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts work well as a substitute.
All-purpose flour: This provides the structure for the cake. You could swap in half whole wheat flour if you want a slightly denser texture and a nuttier flavor.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are essential here, giving the cake a cozy warmth. If you’re a fan of more complex spice blends, feel free to add a pinch of cloves or allspice as well.
Caramel glaze ingredients: You’ll need butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream for the glaze. The heavy cream ensures a creamy consistency, but you could use half-and-half if you prefer a lighter version.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe. A 9-inch round cake pan or a Bundt pan works perfectly, and a whisk is all you need for the batter and glaze.

How To Make This Apple Pecan Cake With Caramel Glaze

Making this cake is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to create a dessert that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.

Prepare your ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan or Bundt pan. Peel, core, and chop your apples, and roughly chop the pecans if they’re not already broken into small pieces.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is well combined – this helps evenly distribute the spices throughout the cake.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and pale. Gradually add in the oil (or melted butter if you prefer) and mix until fully incorporated. The oil adds moisture, making the cake tender and soft.
Combine and add mix-ins: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Then, fold in the chopped apples and pecans, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough, so stir just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Make the caramel glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it dissolves, then add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Pour the warm glaze over the cake, letting it drizzle down the sides.

With only 15 minutes of prep time and around an hour to bake, this cake comes together quickly and fills your home with the most inviting aroma.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this cake stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

At room temperature: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. The caramel glaze may harden slightly, but it still tastes delicious.
In the refrigerator: Store the cake in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s wrapped well or kept in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The caramel glaze may firm up, so let the cake sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
In the freezer: If you want to store it longer, freeze individual slices in airtight containers or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw the cake overnight in the fridge or for an hour at room temperature.

To reheat, warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

This apple pecan cake is versatile, and there are plenty of ways to switch it up depending on your preferences!

Switch up the nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try walnuts or even almonds for a slightly different crunch. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor to the cake.
Spice it up: While cinnamon and nutmeg create a classic flavor, adding a pinch of cloves or a dash of cardamom can give the cake a more complex aroma and taste.
Caramel glaze alternatives: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce. Just warm it up slightly before drizzling it over the cake for that same glossy finish.
Apple varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples. Sweet varieties like Fuji or Gala will give a softer texture, while tart varieties like Granny Smith add a bit of tang.
Add-ins: Love raisins or dried cranberries? Fold in a small handful with the apples and pecans for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

This recipe is perfect as-is, but feel free to experiment and make it your own. It’s a cake that’s easy to customize, making it a treat that can suit any occasion or preference.