Caramel Apple Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Introduction

The Caramel Apple Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting is the ultimate fall dessert. Moist layers of spiced apple cake are paired with a rich, creamy buttercream frosting and finished with a drizzle of luscious caramel sauce. Every bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for holidays, family gatherings, or simply a weekend treat.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of autumn in one decadent cake. The natural sweetness of fresh apples combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a comforting flavor profile, while the silky buttercream and golden caramel elevate it to a show-stopping dessert. It’s moist, flavorful, and perfectly layered — a recipe that impresses both visually and on the palate.

Making it feels like a celebration of the season, and the aroma of baked apples and caramel fills your kitchen with cozy vibes. It’s also versatile — perfect with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a dessert after dinner.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dessert

• A seasonal showstopper that’s perfect for fall or holiday occasions.
• Combines moist apple cake, spiced flavors, creamy buttercream, and caramel.
• Easy to customize with toppings like chopped nuts, more caramel, or apple slices.
• Ideal for special occasions or a treat-yourself moment.
• A dessert that impresses guests and satisfies every sweet tooth.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes per layer
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Calories: ~450 kcal per slice

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert, Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• Pinch of salt

For the Caramel Drizzle:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• ½ cup heavy cream, warm
• Pinch of salt

Simple Cooking Directions

Prepare and bake the spiced apple cake layers.

1. Make the buttercream frosting.
2. Bake and cool the cake layers completely.
3. Assemble the layers with frosting in between.
4. Drizzle homemade caramel over the top.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pans

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Apples

• Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.

Step 8: Make the Buttercream Frosting

• Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well.
• Add vanilla, salt, and enough cream or milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 9: Make the Caramel Drizzle

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar, stirring until it turns amber.
• Add butter and stir until melted.
• Slowly whisk in warm heavy cream and salt. Let cool slightly before using.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of buttercream over it.
• Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream.
• Drizzle caramel over the top, letting it drip down the sides.

How to Serve

• Slice and serve at room temperature.
• Optional: Top with chopped pecans or extra apple slices for presentation.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance.
• Chill cake layers slightly before frosting to prevent melting.
• For a more rustic look, leave frosting slightly textured.
• Warm caramel slightly before drizzling for smoother flow.

Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers.
• Spiced Caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt to the caramel.
• Boozy Version: Add 1–2 tbsp bourbon to the caramel sauce.
• Mini Cakes: Bake as cupcakes for individual servings.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before frosting. Caramel is best added fresh.

Special Equipment Needed

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls and electric mixer
• Wire cooling racks
• Spatula and whisk
• Saucepan for caramel

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake layers a day ahead and store in airtight containers. Frost and caramel the day of serving.

Q2: Can I use pre-made caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Use high-quality store-bought caramel if short on time.

Q3: Can I substitute apples with pears?
Yes, pears also work beautifully with the spices and caramel.

Q4: How do I keep the cake moist?
Use fresh apples, measure flour carefully, and avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

The Caramel Apple Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting is a must-try dessert for any apple or fall lover. Its combination of moist spiced cake, creamy frosting, and luscious caramel makes it a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or special occasions, this cake will undoubtedly become a seasonal favorite.