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- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup apple sauce (optional, for added moisture and apple flavor)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted (depending on desired sweetness and consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted (for crunch and flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Caramelized Apple Cake
1. Prepare the Caramelized Apples:
- In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and golden, and the sugar has turned into a rich caramel sauce (about 8-10 minutes).
- Once caramelized, set the apples aside to cool slightly. You’ll be using these to layer on top of the cake later.
2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or you can line them with parchment paper for easier removal).
3. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate, large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and apple sauce (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
4. Assemble and Bake the Cake:
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the cakes are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until smooth and fluffy. Add more powdered sugar if you want a thicker, sweeter frosting.
6. Toast the Almonds:
- In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them, as they can toast quickly.
7. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Spoon some of the caramelized apples onto the frosting, making sure to spread them evenly over the top.
- Place the second layer of cake on top and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Arrange the remaining caramelized apples on top of the cake. Sprinkle with the toasted almonds for added texture and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve the cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. It’s perfect for a fall gathering, a holiday dessert, or a special occasion.
Tips for Perfecting Your Caramelized Apple Cake
- Choose the Right Apples: Use apples that hold up well to cooking, like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. They provide the right balance of sweetness and tartness and won’t turn mushy when caramelized.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a denser cake. Mix just until combined.
- For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider or apple juice to the cake batter to enhance the apple flavor.
- Make It Ahead: The cake can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Frosting Tip: If you want a smoother frosting, ensure both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before beating them together.
Why This Caramelized Apple Cake is a Must-Try
This Caramelized Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Almonds is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of fall. The caramelized apples bring a natural sweetness and tang, while the rich cream cheese frosting perfectly balances out the flavors with a creamy, slightly tart finish. And don’t forget the toasted almonds—they provide the perfect crunchy contrast to the soft, moist cake.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a dinner party, or just indulging in a treat for yourself, this cake is bound to become a go-to recipe. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a dessert that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Happy baking!
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