
Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake with Caramel Sauce: A Cozy Fall Delight
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of fresh baked goods, especially when it’s a moist apple cinnamon loaf cake topped with caramelized apples and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is both hearty and indulgent, combining sweet cinnamon-spiced apples with a soft, fluffy crumb that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays, a cozy afternoon snack, or sharing with friends, this recipe brings warmth and sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Loaf Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
For the Apple Topping:
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Fold in the Apples: Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Apple Topping
- Cook the Apples: While the cake bakes, heat butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apple, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are tender and caramelized. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
- Melt Butter and Sugar: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Carefully pour in the heavy cream while stirring, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and thickens slightly. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Top the Cake with Caramelized Apples: Once the loaf cake has cooled, generously spoon the caramelized apple topping over the top of the cake.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Pour the warm caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak into the apples and cake.
- Garnish (Optional): For added flair, sprinkle some extra cinnamon or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Slice the loaf cake into thick pieces and serve as a dessert or a delightful treat with your morning coffee or tea. The warm apple topping and gooey caramel sauce make each bite a sweet, comforting indulgence.
- Store: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Tips and Variations:
- Apple Variations: For a variety of flavors, try using different types of apples, such as Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious. Each variety will bring its own sweetness and texture.
- Add a Crunch: For extra texture, you can sprinkle chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) on top before baking or mix them into the batter.
- Vegan Option: To make this cake vegan, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxmeal + 3 tbsp water) and use a non-dairy substitute for sour cream and butter.
Why You Should Make This Apple Cinnamon Loaf Cake
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of warm cinnamon, soft apples, and gooey caramel sauce makes this cake perfect for fall or any cozy occasion.
- Impress Your Guests: Whether for a dinner party or a casual afternoon, this cake is sure to be a showstopper with its beautiful apple topping and rich caramel sauce.
- Perfect for All Occasions: It’s ideal as a dessert, snack, or a sweet breakfast treat to pair with your morning coffee.
Conclusion
This apple cinnamon loaf cake with its caramel sauce and apple topping is the ultimate comfort dessert, perfect for any time of the year but especially delightful in the fall. With tender apples, a moist cake, and a luscious caramel drizzle, each bite is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Perfect for gatherings, or simply to enjoy at home with loved ones, this recipe is a must-try!