Caramel Layer Cake with Apple Frosting

Indulge in the irresistible autumnal flavors of this Caramel Layer Cake with Apple Frosting, a showstopping dessert perfect for any festive occasion. This decadent cake features moist, buttery layers infused with rich caramel sauce, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the spiced sweetness of homemade apple frosting. Luxuriously creamy and flavored with apple butter and cinnamon, the frosting effortlessly captures the essence of fall. Each bite offers a delightful balance of caramelized sweetness and warm fruity undertones, making this cake a must-try for caramel and apple lovers alike. Easy-to-follow steps and a garnish of thin apple slices make this cake a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether it's for a holiday table or a cozy dessert craving, this recipe delivers the perfect combination of seasonal warmth and dessert decadence.

Nutriscore Rating: 35/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoons baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 0.5 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting, softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 0.5 cup apple butter
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 cup thin apple slices (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Step 6

Fold in the caramel sauce until evenly distributed. Do not overmix.

Step 7

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Step 9

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 10

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the apple frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes.

Step 11

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. Increase the speed to medium and beat until fluffy.

Step 12

Mix in the apple butter and ground cinnamon, then add the heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Step 13

Once the cakes are completely cool, level them if necessary. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

Step 14

Spread a generous layer of apple frosting on top of the first cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, and repeat the frosting process with the second and third layers.

Step 15

Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it with a spatula.

Step 16

Optional: Garnish the cake with thin apple slices arranged decoratively on top.

Step 17

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2522.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8700.9

Total Fat 435.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 268.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 1876.6mg	0%
Sodium 3398.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1164.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.4g	0%
Total Sugars 903.2g
Protein 69.9g	0%

Vitamin D 538.0IU	0%
Calcium 737.5mg	0%
Iron 19.0mg	0%
Potassium 1527.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.2%

Protein: 3.2%

Carbs: 52.6%