Apple Cinnamon Walnut Cake with Caramel Drizzle

Apple Cinnamon Walnut Cake with Caramel Drizzle is a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon with the crunch of walnuts. Topped with a rich, sweet caramel drizzle, this cake is perfect for any occasion or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it combines simple ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare and yields a delicious cake that everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or looking for a cozy treat to share with family, this cake will surely impress.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Walnut Cake

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
Fold in the chopped apples and walnuts.
Pour the batter into the cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the caramel drizzle, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Drizzle the caramel over the cooled cake, slice, and serve.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Walnut Cake

Serve this delicious cake on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm flavors of cinnamon and apple paired with the creamy ice cream make for a wonderful dessert experience. You can also serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Store Apple Cinnamon Walnut Cake

You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the refrigerator for about a week. Make sure to keep any leftover caramel drizzle in a sealed container in the fridge. You can reheat it gently before serving.

Tips to Make Apple Cinnamon Walnut Cake

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Chop your apples into small pieces for even distribution in the cake.
Feel free to use any type of apple you prefer based on your taste.
You can toast the walnuts beforehand for extra flavor if you like.

Variation

You can tweak this recipe by adding raisins or using different nuts such as pecans. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can use pears or peaches for a different flavor in the cake.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature.

3. How can I make the caramel sauce thicker?
To make the caramel thicker, cook it slightly longer until it reaches your desired consistency.