Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of baked apples with the rich flavor of salted caramel. This incredible cake will have your taste buds singing and your guests begging for seconds. The perfect blend of sweet and salty, combined with a crumbly topping, makes this cake a must-try for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat on a chilly evening or a show-stopper for a festive gathering, this cake is sure to impress.
This scrumptious dessert is perfect for fall, but you can enjoy it any time of the year. The moment you take a bite, you’ll experience layers of flavors and textures that create a truly unforgettable dessert. Imagine the softness of the cake, the sweetness of the apples, and the rich, buttery crumble on top, all drizzled with luscious salted caramel. This cake is not just about taste; it’s about creating memories with every slice.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn why this Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake is so special, how to make it step by step, and tips on serving it perfectly. So, whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, prepare to indulge in a dessert that will leave everyone wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake is irresistible for several reasons. Here are a few compelling factors that will make you fall in love with this recipe:
1. Comforting Flavors: The combination of caramel and apples is a classic that brings warmth and comfort.
2. Decadent Topping: The crumble topping adds a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft cake and tender apples.
3. Versatile Dessert: This cake is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday celebrations.
4. Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can create this delicious treat.
5. Impressive Presentation: The layers of cake, apples, and crumble create an eye-catching dessert that will wow your guests.
6. Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients, such as adding nuts or using different types of apples, to suit your tastes.
With these enticing qualities, it’s easy to see why Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake is a favorite among dessert lovers. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that evokes feelings of joy and nostalgia.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making this Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes in total. Here’s how that breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes
These times may vary based on your baking experience and kitchen equipment, but this guideline should provide a reliable estimate.

Ingredients

– For the Cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– For the Crumble Topping:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons butter
– ½ cup heavy cream
– ½ teaspoon sea salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this amazing Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake is easy if you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until crumbly.
5. Assemble the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the batter.
6. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a golden amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the butter. Once melted, gradually add the heavy cream and salt. Stir until smooth and set aside.
8. Cool the Cake: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes.
9. Drizzle with Caramel: When the cake is slightly cooled, drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the top, allowing it to soak in.
10. Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

To elevate your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake experience, consider the following tips for serving:
1. Presentation: Serve the cake on a beautiful platter or cake stand to create a visually appealing display.
2. Accompaniments: Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with extra sea salt or crushed nuts on top for an added layer of flavor and texture.
4. Beverage Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a sweet dessert wine.
5. Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful experience that will impress your family and friends, making your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake the star of the dessert table!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, crisp apples. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work wonderfully.
– Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy.
– Let the Caramel Cool: Allow the salted caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling it over the cake for a more controlled pour.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures! Here are some variations to try:
1. Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for an added crunch.
2. Spice It Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger into the cake batter for added warmth and spice.
3. Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips with the apples for a decadent twist on this classic dessert.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep the Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week.
– Freezing: Individual slices can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Special Equipment

To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake comes out perfectly, you’ll need the following tools:
– Mixing bowls: For combining your cake batter and crumble topping.
– Electric mixer: To make mixing the batter easier and more efficient.
– Baking dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this cake.
– Saucepan: For preparing the salted caramel sauce.
– Cooling rack: To let the cake cool evenly after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and let it sit at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this cake suitable for dietary restrictions?
You can easily adapt the recipe by using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option or dairy-free alternatives for the butter and cream.
Can I omit the salted caramel sauce?
Yes, if you prefer a simpler dessert, you can enjoy the cake on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar instead.

Conclusion

The Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Cake is a delightful dessert that combines flavors and textures beautifully. Each slice offers a warm and comforting experience, perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a way to create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you follow the recipe as is or make your own variations, this dessert is sure to impress!

Print