As the crisp autumn air begins to swirl outside my window, I find myself yearning for the comforting embrace of warm baked goods. You’ll know what I mean when the aroma of cinnamon wafts through your home while this Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake bakes. It’s a delightful treat that effortlessly combines the classic flavors of spiced apple pie with the ease of a simple sheet cake.
This recipe is a life-saver for anyone tired of the usual fast-food fare and perfect for those cozy gatherings with friends and family. What sets this cake apart is its moist, tender texture that requires no mixer—just good ol’ fashioned mixing by hand. Topped with a glossy, rich salted caramel glaze, it’s a decadent dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this effortless yet crowd-pleasing delight!
Why is Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tart apples and rich salted caramel creates a delectable taste experience that’s hard to resist.
No Fuss: This recipe is easy to prepare without the need for a mixer, making it ideal for busy bakers.
Perfect for Fall: The warm spices of cinnamon paired with sweet apples evoke the cozy feelings of autumn.
Crowd-Pleaser: It serves a generous number of guests, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks.
Versatile Variations: Experiment with different types of apples or add some nuts for an extra crunch! Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate treat, and you’ll be the star of the dessert table—just like with these Apple Crisp Mini delights!
Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor that perfectly complements the tart apples; no substitutes required unless you wish to experiment with nutmeg.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best fluffiness.
• Fine Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; can be swapped with regular table salt if needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moist texture; can be reduced for less sweetness but not entirely removed.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth; can substitute with extra granulated sugar if brown sugar isn’t on hand.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; vegan options like margarine or plant-based butter can be used.
• Water – Needed to dissolve the butter and mix with dry ingredients; no substitute required for this step.
• Buttermilk – Helps create a tender crumb; can use sour cream or milk mixed with vinegar as a substitute.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and assists in leavening; for a vegan option, flaxseed meal can be used instead.
• Vanilla Extract – Introduces aromatic sweetness; while there’s no perfect substitute, artificial vanilla can suffice.
• Granny Smith Apples – Offers the much-loved tartness and moisture; feel free to use any baking apple like Honeycrisp for a different twist.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Essential for the frosting; no substitutes recommended, although granulated sugar can be blended into a powder.
• Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce – Adds a rich, decadent topping; store-bought can also work if you’re in a pinch.
This Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake is not just a treat; it’s the ultimate fall dessert that welcomes you to indulge in the flavors of the season!
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake
- Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan or a 16.75×12-inch sheet pan to ensure easy cake removal later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, fine sea salt, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Stir well until evenly mixed—this will give your cake a lovely flavor!
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter with the water over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then safely mix it with the dry ingredients, letting it cool slightly afterward.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in buttermilk, large eggs, and vanilla extract into the batter. Gently fold in the chopped Granny Smith apples, allowing their tartness to shine through.
- Spread and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that it’s ready!
- Cool: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. This will help set the texture before glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze: While your cake cools, create your glaze. Combine the melted butter and milk in a bowl and microwave until melted. Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, shiny glaze.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the glossy glaze over the slightly warm cake, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Allow it to set for about 15 minutes before slicing to serve.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake
- Measure Flour Accurately: Always use the spoon-and-level method to prevent packing too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples add the perfect tartness. For a sweeter twist, opt for Honeycrisp or Gala apples instead.
- Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before pouring the salted caramel glaze to prevent it from soaking in.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain texture and flavor.
- Enjoy Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve the cake the same day it’s made, as the glaze can make it soggy over time.
Salted Caramel Variations
Embrace the beauty of customization with these delightful twists that will elevate your Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake to new heights!
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an added crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the soft cake.
- Spiced Up: Toss in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a deeper, spicier flavor that dances on your palate.
- Fruit Fusion: Swap half of the Granny Smith apples for pears to create a lovely, juicy medley that adds sweetness and variation.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the salted caramel glaze for a luscious chocolatey layer that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Vegan Delight: Replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan-friendly version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Coconut Bliss: Stir in shredded unsweetened coconut for a tropical twist that adds a delightful chewiness to each bite.
- Ginger Kick: Incorporate a tablespoon of minced fresh ginger into the batter for a zesty kick that pairs intriguingly with apples and caramel.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the top of the batter for an extra sweet and crunchy layer.
Each of these variations will add a compelling twist, ensuring that every bite feels like a warm hug from the inside. Your baking adventure awaits!
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake?
Imagine the comforting warmth of your kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of spices and caramel as you serve this delightful cake to family and friends.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor enhance the cake, balancing the rich salted caramel beautifully.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a fluffy contrast to each slice, making every bite feel indulgent yet fresh.
- Warm Spiced Cider: A cozy drink that mirrors the notes of cinnamon in the cake and complements the apple flavor perfectly.
- Chai Tea: This spiced tea pairs well with the cake’s warmth, helping to draw out the sweet and savory flavors of both.
- Toasted Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans provide a satisfying crunch, adding both flavor and texture that complements the tender cake.
- Caramel Drizzle: For those who crave extra richness, a drizzle of additional salted caramel over each slice takes it to the next level of decadence.
Let your gatherings become memorable by pairing these delightful companions with your Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake!
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The salted caramel glaze may lose some shine, but the taste will still be delightful.
- Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until heated through. For an extra touch, drizzle with more salted caramel before serving!
Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the cake?
I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake. However, you can also explore other baking apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji, which can provide different flavor profiles depending on your preference.
How should I store the leftover cake?
Store your Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist. If you want to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just remember, while refrigeration keeps it tasty, the glaze may lose some of its initial shine.
Can I freeze this cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the completely cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will protect it from freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and if desired, warm individual pieces in the microwave.
What if my cake turns out too dense?
If your Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake is too dense, it may be due to overpacking the flour. For best results, use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour accurately. Also, make sure your baking soda is fresh to ensure proper leavening.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make this cake vegan. Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit until it thickens for each egg). Replace the buttermilk with a combination of almond milk and a teaspoon of vinegar. Use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter for the glaze.
How long does it take for the glaze to set?
The glaze should ideally set for about 15 minutes on the slightly warm cake before slicing. This will allow it to become glossy and adhere nicely without soaking into the cake too much. Enjoy your delightful Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake!
Indulgent Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake That's No Fuss
Equipment
- 10x15 inch jelly roll pan
- Medium saucepan
- large mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon Nutmeg can be used for variation
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure it's fresh for the best fluffiness
- 1/2 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Can swap with regular table salt
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar Can reduce for less sweetness
- 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Can substitute with extra granulated sugar if needed
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Vegan options are margarine or plant-based butter
- 1/2 cup Water Needed for dissolving butter
- 1 cup Buttermilk Can use sour cream mixed with vinegar as a substitute
- 2 Large Eggs Flaxseed meal can be used for a vegan option
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Artificial vanilla can suffice as a substitute
- 3 cups Granny Smith Apples Any baking apple can be used
For the Glaze
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar No substitutes recommended
- 1 cup Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Store-bought can be used in a pinch
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan or a 16.75x12-inch sheet pan.
- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, fine sea salt, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Stir well until evenly mixed.
- In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter with water over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then mix with dry ingredients, letting it cool slightly.
- Stir in buttermilk, large eggs, and vanilla extract into the batter. Fold in chopped Granny Smith apples.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes.
- While the cake cools, combine melted butter and milk in a bowl and microwave until melted. Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the glaze over the slightly warm cake and allow it to set for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Nutrition
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