Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake with Caramel Sauce: A Perfect Fall Dessert

Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake with Caramel Sauce: A Perfect Fall Dessert

Introduction

Nothing beats the warm and comforting flavors of apple cinnamon loaf cake topped with caramelized apples and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. This cake is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also the perfect dessert for those chilly fall days when you’re craving something indulgent yet cozy. With a rich cinnamon-spiced cake base, juicy caramelized apples, and gooey caramel sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s get started on making this delicious dessert that everyone will love!


Ingredients

For the Loaf Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced)

For the Caramelized Apple Topping:

  • 1 large apple (peeled, cored, and chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Loaf Cake

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate with Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the batter.
  7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Topping

  1. Cook Apples: While the cake is baking, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the chopped apple, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

  1. Cook Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Top with Apples: Once the cake is cooled, spread the caramelized apples evenly over the top of the loaf.
  2. Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Pour the homemade caramel sauce over the apples, letting it seep down the sides of the cake for extra indulgence.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve: Slice the cake into thick slices and serve immediately for a cozy, sweet treat. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy on its own.
  2. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.

Pro Tips:

  • Apple Varieties: For a tart contrast to the sweetness of the caramel sauce, use Granny Smith apples. For a sweeter result, opt for Honeycrisp or Gala apples.
  • For Extra Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple topping for some extra crunch and flavor.
  • Vegan Version: Replace the butter and eggs with dairy-free substitutes, such as coconut oil and flax eggs, to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

  • Perfect for Fall: This cake embodies the comforting flavors of fall with cinnamon, caramelized apples, and caramel sauce.
  • Versatile: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend dessert, or an after-dinner treat, this loaf cake fits all occasions.
  • Easy to Make: Despite its delicious complexity, this recipe is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels to master.

Conclusion

The Caramel Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and indulgent flavors. The tender cake, spiced apples, and creamy caramel sauce make this dessert an unforgettable treat that everyone will adore. Try it today and watch it disappear off the plate!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *