Cozy Up with Caramel Apple Spice Cake for Fall Bliss

Name: Cozy Up with Caramel Apple Spice Cake for Fall Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 64 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spoon and level to avoid a dry cake); 2 teaspoons baking powder (helps the cake rise beautifully); 1 teaspoon baking soda (essential for fluffiness); 1 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth characteristic of fall baking); 1 teaspoon ground ginger (enhances spiciness and warmth); 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (contributes to the cozy autumn flavor profile); 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup canola oil (can be replaced with melted butter); 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark packed works well); 1 cup granulated sugar (opt for coconut sugar for a twist); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (high-quality extract makes a difference); 3 large eggs (ensure they're at room temperature); 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be a substitute); 1/2 cup buttermilk (should be at room temperature); 3 cups Gala apples (sweet and perfect for filling); 1/4 cup brown sugar (enhances sweetness of the apples); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (thickens the apple filling); 1 cup heavy cream (adds richness); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (choose unsalted for better control); 4 cups powdered sugar (sift before use)

Hi I'm Merry

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on October 2, 2025

As the crisp autumn air settles in, I find myself yearning for that comforting embrace of spices and sweetness that only a homemade cake can bring. Enter my Caramel Apple Spice Cake—a delightful balance of moist layers enriched with tender apple filling and drizzled in rich salted caramel. This recipe is not only a visual masterpiece for your gatherings but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or festive occasions. Whether you’re searching for gluten-free variations or nut-free alternatives to accommodate guests, this cake has options for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s take a journey into the fall kitchen together and create a sweet memory that will warm your heart!

Why is this cake a fall must-try?

Cozy flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg envelop each moist slice, capturing the heart of autumn. Versatile options allow you to tailor the recipe for gluten-free or vegan diets without compromising taste. Easy to make, you can impress guests with minimal effort, and who doesn’t love a dessert that doubles as a centerpiece? Perfectly layered with gooey caramel and spiced apples, this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds—just like they would with my Homemade Caramel Apple treats! Don’t forget, this recipe pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream, creating a comfort food experience everyone will adore.

Caramel Apple Spice Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; spoon and level to avoid a dry cake.
Baking powder – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
Baking soda – Works with acidic ingredients for leavening; essential for fluffiness.
Salt – Enhances flavor, balancing the cake’s sweetness.
Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, characteristic of fall baking.
Ground ginger – Enhances the cake’s spiciness and warmth.
Pumpkin pie spice & Ground nutmeg – Contributes to the cozy autumn flavor profile.
Canola oil – Keeps the cake moist; can be replaced with melted butter for richness.
Brown sugar – Sweetens and adds moisture; light or dark packed works well.
Granulated sugar – The sweetness base; opt for coconut sugar for a delightful twist.
Pure vanilla extract – Imparts warmth; high-quality extract makes a difference.
Large eggs – Provides structure and moisture; ensure they’re at room temperature.
Sour cream – Adds richness and moisture; Greek yogurt can be a great substitute.
Buttermilk – Ensures a tender cake; should also be at room temperature.
Gala apples – Sweet and perfect for filling; substitute with Fuji or Honeycrisp apples if necessary.
For the Apple Filling
Brown sugar (for apple filling) – Enhances the sweetness of the apples.
Cornstarch – Thickens the apple filling for the right consistency.
For the Frosting
Heavy cream – Adds richness to the frosting.
Unsalted butter – Essential for frosting; choose unsalted for better control.
Powdered sugar – Key for a smooth frosting texture; always sift before use.

This Caramel Apple Spice Cake is the perfect fall dessert that will have you and your loved ones embracing the deliciousness of the season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is essential for achieving the perfect bake for your Caramel Apple Spice Cake. While the oven heats, prepare your cake pans by greasing them with butter or non-stick spray and lining the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, pumpkin pie spice, and nutmeg. This step not only incorporates air for a lighter cake but also ensures all dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Set the bowl aside, as this mixture will blend seamlessly with your wet ingredients in the next step.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the canola oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, sour cream, eggs, and buttermilk until fully combined and smooth. The mixture should appear creamy and cohesive. This combination adds moisture and richness to the Caramel Apple Spice Cake, enhancing its flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Aim for a thick batter, but avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and airy. A few small lumps are okay; this blend is the foundation of your delightful Caramel Apple Spice Cake.

Step 5: Prepare Cake Pans
Divide the cake batter equally into the three prepared 8-inch round cake pans. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly, smoothing the top for uniform layers. Each pan should be about two-thirds full to allow for rising during baking, ensuring you achieve beautiful, tall layers in your final cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Place the filled cake pans in your preheated oven and bake for 20-24 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as oven temperatures can vary. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes
After 10 minutes, carefully remove the cakes from the pans by inverting them onto wire racks. Gently peel off the parchment paper and let them cool completely. This cooling process is crucial to prevent the cake from crumbling when you layer it with the apple filling and frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the cakes are cooling, heat a skillet over medium heat and add sliced Gala apples, brown sugar, butter, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens and bubbles. Once done, let the apple filling cool to room temperature before assembling your cake.

Step 9: Make the Frosting
To create the luscious frosting, beat the unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Incorporate the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a hint of cinnamon. Whip until fluffy and well combined; the frosting should be soft but spreadable, perfect for enchanting your Caramel Apple Spice Cake.

Step 10: Layer the Cake
Trim the tops of the cooled cake layers if needed for an even surface. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting, and then add a portion of the cooled apple filling. Repeat this process for the second layer. Top with the final layer of cake, and apply a crumb coat of frosting around the edges for a neat finish.

Step 11: Frost and Decorate
Frost the entire exterior of your Caramel Apple Spice Cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out for an elegant look. For a final touch, drizzle salted caramel over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a delightful presentation. Chill the cake to set the frosting and caramel before slicing for that sweet fall flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Over time, the flavors deepen, making it even more delectable!

Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm piece of cake, gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just enough to soften the frosting without melting it.

Serving Tip: The Caramel Apple Spice Cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream, making every bite a cozy fall treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Caramel Apple Spice Cake layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature, which helps the flavors develop even further. The apple filling can also be prepared 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate it in a sealed container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the chilled cake and drizzle with the salted caramel. For optimal quality, be sure to let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving; this will enhance the flavor and texture, delivering a dessert that’s just as delicious as freshly baked!

What to Serve with Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Enhance your autumn gathering with these delightful pairings that complement the warm, sweet flavors of this captivating dessert.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and texture, balancing the richness of the cake beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing offers a creamy contrast, melting into the spiced layers and enhancing its sweet profile.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These fluffy bites create an enjoyable textural variety, bringing an extra sprinkle of nostalgia and fall flavors.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle additional caramel over the top for a decadent touch or serve it on the side for guests to indulge even more.
Chai Tea: This spiced beverage echoes the cake’s warm spices, making for a cozy, comforting drink that enhances each bite.
Spiced Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider complements the cake perfectly, creating a fragrant and flavorful experience that’s pure autumn bliss!

These thoughtful additions not only elevate your dessert but create a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones.

Caramel Apple Spice Cake Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this cozy cake and explore exciting flavor profiles!

Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream and buttermilk with almond or coconut milk yogurt for a smooth and creamy texture.
Explore a plant-based frosting option to keep it fully dairy-free!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture. You’d be surprised how delicious a gluten-free cake can be!
Nut-Free: Omit nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds, ensuring those with nut allergies can still enjoy a delightful crunch.
Fruit Swap: Substitute apples with ripe pears for a luxurious, juicy twist. Pears provide an elegant, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel.
Cupcake Version: Transform the cake into cupcakes by reducing the baking time to about 18-20 minutes. Perfect for your next gathering or children’s party!
Extra Spicy: For an adventurous flavor, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. A warm kick will spice things up, taking your cake to an exciting new level.
Caramel Drizzle: Enhance visual appeal by drizzling more caramel sauce over the top before serving. It’ll not only look amazing but taste divine too!
Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the buttercream frosting for a tangy cream cheese version, which complements the sweetness of the cake and adds a rich flavor.

Remember, every twist makes your Caramel Apple Spice Cake uniquely yours! Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a comforting dessert that’s perfect for autumn evenings. And if you want to explore more caramel treats, don’t miss my delicious Homemade Caramel Apple recipe to elevate your dessert game even further!

Expert Tips for Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Mixing Method: Avoid overmixing: Gently combine your wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. This ensures a fluffy Caramel Apple Spice Cake.
Apple Selection: Choose wisely: While Gala apples are ideal, Honeycrisp and Fuji also work beautifully, offering a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Cooling Time: Let it cool: Allow cakes to cool in the pans for at least 10 minutes. This prevents breakage when inverting onto racks.
Frosting Consistency: Keep it chill: If your frosting becomes too soft, refrigerate it momentarily to make spreading easier before frosting the cake.
Even Layers: Leveling tips: Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cakes for level layers, ensuring a beautiful presentation and easier stacking.
Storage Secrets: Flavor boost: The Caramel Apple Spice Cake tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead option for gatherings!

Caramel Apple Spice Cake Recipe FAQs

What apples are best for this cake?
I absolutely love using Gala apples because they’re sweet and hold up well in baking! However, Fuji and Honeycrisp apples are fantastic alternatives. They provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the flavor profile of your Caramel Apple Spice Cake.

How long can I store the cake, and what’s the best method?
You can store your Caramel Apple Spice Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It actually tastes better after a day as the flavors develop! If you want to keep some for longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving, and you’ll be amazed at how fresh it still tastes!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Very! To adapt the recipe for gluten-free diets, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum, which helps maintain the cake’s structure. Your Caramel Apple Spice Cake will still be moist and delicious without any sacrifice in flavor!

What do I do if my frosting is too runny?
If your frosting turns out too soft, don’t worry! You can either chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to help it firm up, or add a bit more sifted powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. This will ensure your frosting is spreadable but still holds its shape beautifully on your Caramel Apple Spice Cake.