Caramel Apple Spice Cake – A Cozy Fall Favorite

There’s just something irresistible about a Caramel Apple Spice Cake that makes you wanna throw on a sweater and pretend it’s 55 degrees outside—even if it’s not. This cozy dessert captures all the best fall flavors: warm cinnamon, nutmeg, juicy apples, and, of course, that rich, buttery caramel drizzle that practically begs to be eaten by the spoonful (no judgment here).

Whether you’re baking for a family get-together, a Friendsgiving feast, or just because your soul needs something sweet and cinnamony, this cake has your back. Bonus? It’s pretty enough to make it to the holiday table but easy enough to whip up without causing a kitchen meltdown. If your idea of baking is anything above “box mix,” this Caramel Apple Spice Cake will make you look like a domestic goddess—with zero stress and maximum flavor.

Table of Contents

What is Caramel Apple Spice Cake?

Caramel Apple Spice Cake is like if a spiced apple cider and a caramel apple had a very delicious baby. It’s a moist, tender cake filled with warm fall spices (think cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves), packed with real chopped apples, and topped off with a dreamy caramel buttercream frosting. It’s one of those nostalgic desserts that instantly makes your kitchen smell like a hug.

While the name might sound fancy, it’s honestly the kind of cozy, comforting cake that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or as a weekend baking project. It’s different from an apple pie or a crisp—it’s got that rich cake texture with layers you can stack, frost, and yes, totally smother in caramel sauce. If you’re looking for something festive but fuss-free, this might be your new go-to fall dessert.

Reasons to Try Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Let’s start with the obvious: Caramel Apple Spice Cake tastes like fall in cake form. The combination of spices with chunks of fresh apple gives every bite a burst of cozy flavor. It’s also a total crowd-pleaser—even the picky dessert people in your life (we all know one) tend to cave at the sight of gooey caramel dripping down the sides. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make—no weird ingredients or complicated steps.

And if you’ve ever dealt with frosting a layer cake and wanted to scream into your stand mixer, don’t worry—this one’s super forgiving. It’s a great make-ahead option too. The flavor actually gets better as it sits. Oh, and if you’re already planning your fall menu, this cake is practically begging to be the star alongside your Sweet Potato Crunch Casserole or Thanksgiving Carrots. Did I mention it makes the house smell like a candle from a cozy little mountain cabin?

Ingredients Needed to Make Caramel Apple Spice Cake

For the Apple Spice Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup applesauce
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 3 cups chopped apples (peeled if you like)

For the Caramel Buttercream:

• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup caramel sauce
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 3 cups powdered sugar

Decoration (optional):

• Extra caramel for dripping
• Apple slices (fresh or dehydrated)

Instructions to Make Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Ready to bring this cozy dessert to life? Let’s walk through how to make this Caramel Apple Spice Cake step by step. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just pulling out your cake pans for the first time this season, this guide will help you every step of the way—with plenty of tips, encouragement, and flavor-packed details along the journey.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Cake Pans

Let’s kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, starting with a properly heated oven is key to baking success—it sets the stage for even rise and golden edges.

Next, grab four 8-inch round cake pans. If you don’t have four (because let’s be honest, who does?), you can bake the cakes in batches or opt for two 9-inch pans and slice each layer in half later. Lightly grease each pan with butter or nonstick spray, then dust with flour or line with parchment paper. This extra step prevents sticking and helps your cakes release like a dream.

Looking for more prep tips to avoid sticky situations? Check out our guide on baking prep basics (especially helpful if you’re using non-standard pans).

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2½ teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon each of cloves and ground ginger

This spiced mixture brings that signature warm, fall flavor to your Caramel Apple Spice Cake. If you’re feeling adventurous or short on one spice, you can read our ingredient substitution tips for ideas like pumpkin pie spice as a backup.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Oil, Sugar, and Applesauce

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine:

• ½ cup softened unsalted butter
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup applesauce

Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes smooth, pale, and slightly fluffy. The applesauce adds both moisture and a little natural sweetness while helping to lighten the crumb. This combo gives you that soft, melt-in-your-mouth cake texture. If your butter isn’t quite soft enough, try our quick softening trick.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add four large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Don’t rush this part—adding the eggs slowly and mixing thoroughly helps build structure and avoid a dense cake. The batter should be smooth and glossy at this point.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together—step by step. Begin adding your dry ingredients to the wet batter in thirds, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Start with a third of the flour mixture, mix gently, then add half the milk. Repeat until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Overmixing is the enemy here—so once the batter looks uniform and creamy, stop mixing.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Now for the stars of the show: 3 cups of chopped apples. Gently fold them into the batter using a spatula. Make sure they’re evenly distributed, so every bite of your Caramel Apple Spice Cake has that juicy apple goodness.

For best results, use a firm baking apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. If you’re not sure which to pick, our apple guide can help you decide.

Step 7: Divide and Bake

Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Use a kitchen scale or eyeball it—either works fine, just aim for equal amounts so the layers bake evenly.

Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Don’t rely only on color—the edges should pull slightly from the sides, and the tops should spring back when gently pressed.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, let the cakes rest in the pans for about 10–15 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial—if you frost a warm cake, the buttercream will melt faster than your patience during holiday hosting.

Step 9: Make the Caramel Buttercream

In a clean bowl, beat:

• 2 cups unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup caramel sauce
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Mix until light and fluffy, then gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. The result? A creamy, dreamy caramel buttercream that spreads like silk. Want a slightly salty edge? A pinch of sea salt brings the sweet and spiced flavors to life.

Need to save time? You can use your favorite store-bought caramel sauce—no shame here!

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake – Step by Step

Let’s build! Level your cooled cake layers using a large serrated knife or cake leveler for a smooth, stackable surface.

• Start with one layer on a cake stand or plate.
• Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top.
• Repeat with the remaining layers.

Once stacked, apply a thin crumb coat—a light layer of frosting that locks in stray crumbs. Place the cake in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm it up. This step-by-step trick keeps the final coat clean and flawless.

After chilling, apply the final layer of buttercream. Smooth it with a spatula or get rustic with swoops and swirls—your kitchen, your rules.

Step 11: Finish with Flair

Feeling fancy? Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top and let it drip down the sides. Add fresh or dried apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even some crushed pecans if you’re feeling wild.

Want to explore more fall dessert ideas to go with your cake masterpiece? Try this brilliant Sweet Potato Crunch Casserole for the ultimate cozy combo.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve your Caramel Apple Spice Cake proudly—it’s the kind of dessert that stops conversations in their tracks (in the best way). It pairs perfectly with coffee, cider, or a quiet moment to yourself after a long day.

What to Serve with Caramel Apple Spice Cake

This Caramel Apple Spice Cake is already the star, but it pairs beautifully with a few sidekicks. Try serving it with a warm drink like chai tea, mulled cider, or a pumpkin spice latte for full-on autumn vibes. If you’re hosting a fall dinner, it makes a stunning finish after something hearty like Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder or Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake. Want to turn dessert into a celebration? A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon is chef’s kiss. And yes, we fully support you eating a leftover slice for breakfast—it’s basically like fancy spiced apple bread, right?

Key Tips for Making Caramel Apple Spice Cake

Here’s where you save yourself from mid-bake chaos. First, use baking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji—they hold their shape and bring the flavor. Don’t skip the applesauce—it adds moisture and that subtle tang. Room temp ingredients are your best friend; they mix better and help your cake rise evenly. When making buttercream, beat that butter until it’s light and fluffy before adding the sugar—it’s the difference between silky and gritty. Want next-level flavor? Try browning the butter for your frosting. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel drizzle—it balances the sweetness like a pro.

Storage and Reheating Tips Caramel Apple Spice Cake

This cake holds up beautifully—just another reason to love it. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5. If you refrigerate, let it come to room temp before serving so the frosting softens up. Want to freeze it? Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. For reheating, a 15-second microwave zap brings that soft, fresh-baked feel back to life—especially if you serve it warm with ice cream. Just don’t microwave the whole frosted cake unless you enjoy molten frosting waterfalls.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance and store them wrapped in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yep! Totally fine. If you want to go homemade, try this caramel sauce recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction.

What apples are best for baking?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn all work well. You want apples that stay firm and don’t turn to mush.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Make sure your caramel and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Do I have to use four cake pans?
Not at all. Use two 9-inch pans or one 9×13 pan if you’re going for a sheet cake. Just adjust your baking time.

Final Thoughts

Caramel Apple Spice Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a warm hug in cake form. Whether you’re whipping it up for a gathering or just because it’s a Tuesday and you deserve cake, this recipe will become a staple in your fall (or honestly, year-round) lineup. It brings together comfort, flavor, and just the right amount of fancy without being fussy. Plus, it’s the kind of cake that makes your kitchen smell like a dream and your friends ask, “Wait, you made this from scratch?!” And if you’re in the mood for more cozy goodness, don’t miss our Easy Spiced Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup for the ultimate seasonal pairing. Now go forth and bake that cake!

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