Experience the heartwarming flavors of the South with this Kentucky apple cake. Moist, spiced, and packed with fresh apples, this cake is topped with a luscious caramel glaze that makes every bite pure bliss. Perfect for any occasion, this delightful dessert will surely become a favorite in your home. Ready to bake a Southern classic?
Ingredients:
- For the cake:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups diced, peeled apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- For the caramel glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, diced apples, and chopped pecans.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the caramel glaze: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Glaze the cake: While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a fork or skewer. Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cake, spreading it evenly. Allow the glaze to soak into the cake as it cools completely.
- Serve: Slice and serve this rich, spiced apple cake. Enjoy it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion and Tips: This Kentucky apple cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of spices with the freshness of apples and the richness of caramel. For a twist, try adding a handful of raisins or cranberries to the batter. This cake is perfect for making ahead and tastes even better the next day. We’d love to hear how this Southern classic becomes a favorite in your home!
Do you have a special twist on this Kentucky apple cake? Share your tips and variations in the comments below. Let’s bake a taste of Southern comfort together!