There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Apple Pecan Cake filling your kitchen on a crisp autumn afternoon. The moist, spiced cake paired with crunchy pecans and tender apple chunks is topped with a rich, buttery caramel glaze that seeps into every crevice, making each bite utterly irresistible.

I first discovered this recipe years ago while searching for a perfect dessert to take to a family gathering. Since then, it has become a must-have treat every fall season, with friends and family eagerly requesting it time and again. Trust me, this Apple Pecan Cake will quickly become one of your go-to recipes, whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet indulgence.

Ready to learn how to make this crowd-pleaser? Let's dive in!

Why You'll Love This Apple Pecan Cake

Get ready to experience a dessert that's as delicious as it is simple to prepare. This Apple Pecan Cake hits all the right notes for a perfect treat.

First of all, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of warm cinnamon and nutmeg complements the sweetness of fresh apples beautifully, while the toasted pecans add a delightful crunch. Every forkful is a satisfying medley of sweet, spiced, and nutty flavors.

You’ll also appreciate how effortless it is to make. There's no need for fancy equipment or complicated techniques – just a simple, one-bowl cake batter that comes together in minutes. It’s ideal for busy days when you still want to impress your loved ones with a homemade dessert.

Speaking of versatility, this cake works well for any occasion. Enjoy it warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or savor a slice with your morning coffee. The caramel glaze is the pièce de résistance, giving the cake an extra layer of indulgence that’s hard to resist.

Finally, this recipe is perfect for using up seasonal apples. Whether you prefer Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, this cake is a fantastic way to highlight the natural sweetness and texture of fresh, juicy apples.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Apple Pecan Cake lies in its simple yet well-chosen ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dessert so delicious.

Apples: The star of the show! I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith apples provide a bright, tangy contrast to the rich cake, while Honeycrisp or Gala apples add a natural sweetness and a lovely texture. Peel and chop the apples into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

Pecans: These nuts add a wonderful crunch and a buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples and spices. Toasting the pecans before folding them into the batter enhances their flavor even more. If you prefer, you can substitute with walnuts or leave the nuts out entirely for a nut-free version.

Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are essential for bringing out the warmth and depth of the cake. If you’re a fan of spiced desserts, consider adding a pinch of allspice or ground cloves for an extra kick.

Caramel Glaze: This glaze is pure heaven! Made from butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and a touch of vanilla, it seeps into the warm cake and creates a sticky, caramelized finish. Be sure to pour the glaze over the cake while both are still warm to ensure maximum absorption.

You’ll also need a few basic pantry staples: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, eggs, and vegetable oil. The oil keeps the cake wonderfully moist, while the baking soda ensures a light, fluffy crumb.

Special Equipment

You’ll need a 9x13-inch baking dish or a Bundt pan, a mixing bowl, and a whisk. If you’re using a Bundt pan, be sure to grease it well to prevent the cake from sticking.

How To Make This Apple Pecan Cake

Creating this mouthwatering Apple Pecan Cake couldn’t be simpler. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your baking dish. If you’re using a Bundt pan, dust it lightly with flour as well to ensure easy release.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and pale. The oil helps keep the cake moist, so don’t be tempted to skimp on it. Once combined, add in the vanilla extract.

Next, sift in the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined – be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cake dense. At this stage, fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into your prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake will be golden brown and your kitchen will smell amazing!

While the cake is baking, make the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.

Once the cake comes out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Poke small holes all over the cake with a fork, then pour the warm caramel glaze over the top, allowing it to seep into the cake. [IMAGE]

This cake is best enjoyed warm but can be served at room temperature as well. Either way, it’s a guaranteed hit!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), this Apple Pecan Cake stores beautifully. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.

Room Temperature: The cake will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.

Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. The glaze may harden slightly in the fridge, so let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften it up.

Freezing: This cake also freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy!

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this Apple Pecan Cake lies in its adaptability. Here are some ideas for customizing it to your taste or dietary needs.

Nut-Free Version: If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free dessert, simply omit the pecans. The cake will still be deliciously moist and flavorful.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Make sure your baking mix contains xanthan gum for structure, or add it separately if needed.

Spice It Up: If you love bold, spicy flavors, add ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves or allspice to the batter. It’ll give the cake an extra depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the caramel glaze.

Healthier Tweaks: For a slightly lighter version, you can replace half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. The cake will still be moist but with fewer calories. You can also try using whole wheat flour for a more wholesome texture.

Feel free to experiment and make this cake your own. With a recipe this forgiving, you can’t go wrong. Happy baking!