Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• ½ cup white sugar
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar
• ½ cup canola oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• ½ tbsp vinegar

For the Caramelized Apples:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
• 2 tbsp white sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder

Steps to Make Caramelized Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon powder. Set aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white sugar, brown sugar, and canola oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the evaporated milk with the vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly. This will mimic buttermilk and help make the cake moist.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk mixture. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix.

Step 2: Caramelize the Apples

6. Heat the Butter: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
7. Add Sugar and Cinnamon: Sprinkle the apples with the white sugar and cinnamon powder. Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the apples are caramelized and golden. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

8. Layer the Apples: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan. Spread half of the caramelized apples over the batter in an even layer. Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth it out with a spatula.
9. Top with Apples: Spread the remaining caramelized apples over the top of the cake.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Serve

11. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve it warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, garnish with whipped cream or drizzle with caramel sauce.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Information

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 320 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 2g

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Caramelized Apple Spice Cake embodies timelessness through its use of classic flavors and ingredients. Apples and cinnamon have been staples of baking for generations, evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. This cake combines the richness of a moist spice cake with the freshness and sweetness of caramelized apples, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and homely.

The versatility of this recipe also adds to its enduring appeal. It can be adapted with different types of apples or even pears, making it suitable for various seasons and preferences. The caramelized topping elevates the cake’s flavor, turning a simple dessert into something truly special. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of fruit?

Yes, you can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or even plums. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be baked a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

3. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Tips for Perfect Results

1. Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during cooking and add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix the ingredients until just combined for the best texture.
3. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature to help the batter mix evenly.
4. Customize the Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to enhance the warmth of the cinnamon.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

The Caramelized Apple Spice Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a comforting, nostalgic treat that brings people together. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it a standout dessert for any occasion, while its simplicity ensures it’s approachable for bakers of all skill levels. The caramelized apples add a unique, sweet-tart topping that perfectly complements the warm spices in the cake.

Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a crisp autumn afternoon or serving it as the centerpiece of a holiday meal, this cake is a testament to the timeless pairing of apples and cinnamon. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing flavors make it a recipe worth revisiting time and time again. So, roll up your sleeves and bake this heartwarming cake—it’s sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.