Every fall, like clockwork, I find myself reaching for this cozy, soul-warming Apple Pecan Cake recipe. It’s been a staple in my kitchen for years — the kind of cake that brings people together with every bite. Made with crisp, juicy apples, nutty toasted pecans, and the perfect blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, this apple pecan cake is everything I love about autumn wrapped into one delicious slice.
What truly takes it over the top is the homemade caramel glaze — thick, golden, and just the right amount of sweet. Poured over the warm cake, it seeps into every crack, making each bite rich, buttery, and unforgettable. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast, baking for a cozy Sunday dinner, or just craving something that tastes like a warm hug, this Apple Pecan Cake never disappoints.
I’ve baked this apple pecan cake more times than I can count, and every time, it reminds me why I love sharing simple, heartfelt recipes. If you're looking for a dessert that's easy to make yet feels like something special, this Apple Pecan Cake is the one to try. Trust me — it’s a recipe you'll reach for again and again, especially when the leaves start to turn.
Why You'll Love This Apple Pecan Cake
One of the things I love most about this Apple Pecan Cake is how incredibly moist it stays, even days after baking. The fresh apples work their magic in every bite, keeping the crumb tender and soft without ever feeling heavy. It’s the kind of cake that somehow tastes even better the next day as the apples, spices, and brown sugar flavors meld together beautifully. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how comforting a simple homemade cake can be.
The texture is another reason this Apple Pecan Cake is such a favorite. The toasted pecans bring a delightful crunch that pairs so well with the pillowy, spiced cake — it’s that perfect balance of soft and crisp that makes each bite irresistible. What I really appreciate is how flexible this recipe is, too. Whether I’m baking it as a rustic sheet cake for a potluck, a pretty bundt for a holiday table, or stacking layers for a cozy fall birthday, it turns out beautifully every time.
But what truly makes this Apple Pecan Cake a keeper in my kitchen is how much people love it. It’s one of those recipes that always gets requested again and again — a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. If you're looking for a dessert that’s full of heart, flavor, and that nostalgic homemade touch, this Apple Pecan Cake is exactly what you need.
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Ingredients
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Ground cloves
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar, packed
- Eggs, room temperature
- Vanilla extract
- Apple cider (or apple juice)
- Apples (about 3 medium apples, preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Pecans, coarsely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Caramel Glaze:
- Unsalted butter
- Light brown sugar, packed
- Heavy cream
- Salt
- Vanilla extract
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
- Toast the pecans by spreading them on a baking sheet and baking for 8-10 minutes until fragrant, stirring once. Set aside to cool, then coarsely chop.
- Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl: flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk together and set aside.
- Cream butter and sugars in a large bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and apple cider to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined after each addition.
- Fold in the diced apples and 1 ½ cups of toasted pecans with a rubber spatula.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared bundt pan, spreading evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the apple pecan cake in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Caramel Glaze:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and salt, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes without stirring.
- Stir in heavy cream carefully (mixture will bubble up). Return to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Let the glaze cool for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly but is still pourable.
Finish the Cake:
- Place the cooled cake on a serving plate with a rim or with parchment paper underneath to catch drips.
- Pour the warm caramel glaze slowly over the apple pecan cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Sprinkle additional toasted pecan pieces over the top while the glaze is still warm.
Allow the glaze to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Step 1: Prepare the Cake Mix the spiced batter, fold in apples and pecans, and bake until golden and fragrant.
- Step 2:Make the Caramel Glaze Simmer butter, sugar, and cream into a glossy, rich caramel glaze.
- Step 3: Finish the Cake Pour warm caramel glaze over the cooled cake and sprinkle with extra pecans.
Helpful Hints for your Apple Pecan Cake
- Use the Right Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are best for this recipe. Their firm texture holds up beautifully in baking and balances the sweetness of the caramel glaze.
- Toast the Pecans: Don’t skip this step! Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds a subtle crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft apple crumb.
- Let the Apple Pecan Cake Cool Before Glazing: Be patient—pouring caramel glaze over a hot cake can cause it to slide off. Let the apple pecan cake cool completely so the glaze sets just right.
- Double the Glaze (If You Love Extra Sauce): If you're a caramel lover, make 1.5x or double the glaze recipe. Drizzle some on each slice when serving for an extra indulgent touch.
- Chop Apples Evenly: Small, uniform pieces (about ¼-inch) ensure every bite has a little apple and that the cake bakes evenly without soggy spots.
- Test for Doneness Carefully: Start checking the apple pecan cake at 45 minutes with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—don’t wait for it to be bone dry!
- Make It Ahead: This apple pecan cake is even better the next day. The flavors deepen and the texture becomes even more moist, making it ideal for holidays or events.
- Clean Bundt Pan Thoroughly: Use a pastry brush to get butter into every nook of the bundt pan, then flour well. This prevents sticking and helps the apple pecan cake release cleanly.
- Warm the Glaze Slightly Before Serving: If your glaze thickens too much after setting, rewarm it gently to make it pourable again—perfect for leftover slices.
Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is made with real, wholesome ingredients like fresh apples, pecans, and warming spices—perfect for a cozy fall dessert that feels indulgent but still made from scratch with love. The apples provide natural moisture and fiber, while the pecans offer heart-healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.
Want to adjust it for your needs? You can easily make this apple pecan cake dairy-free by swapping the butter for a plant-based alternative and using coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the glaze. For a lower sugar version, reduce the sugar in the batter slightly and drizzle the glaze more lightly—it's still packed with flavor!
When it comes to serving, this cake shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. For an extra cozy touch, enjoy a warm slice with spiced cider or cinnamon tea. It’s also perfect for holiday brunches, potlucks, or even wrapped up as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Apple Pecan Sheet Cake: Prefer a simpler presentation? Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan and bake for 35–40 minutes. It’s great for potlucks or casual gatherings.
- Mini Bundts or Cupcakes: For individual servings, use mini bundt pans or cupcake tins. Just reduce the baking time to 20–25 minutes and glaze each one for a charming touch.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Swap: Want something tangy instead of caramel? Swap the glaze for cream cheese frosting for a softer, sweeter contrast to the spiced cake.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans entirely if you’re serving guests with allergies. You can add rolled oats or shredded coconut for a little texture if desired.
- Add Dried Fruit: Stir in ½ cup of dried cranberries or golden raisins for a festive twist and a pop of tart sweetness.
- Extra-Spiced Version: Love bold spice? Increase the cinnamon to 1 tablespoon or add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for deeper fall flavor.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Check that your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Bourbon Caramel Glaze: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the caramel glaze after removing from heat for an elegant, grown-up version with a hint of warmth.
Equipment
- 12-cup Bundt Pan – For the classic shape and even baking. Make sure it's well-greased and floured to prevent sticking.
- Electric Mixer – A stand mixer or hand mixer works great for creaming the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Mixing Bowls – You'll need at least two: one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
- Rubber Spatula – Perfect for folding in apples and pecans and scraping down the sides of your bowl.
- Whisk – Useful for combining dry ingredients evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are key for a balanced flavor and texture.
- Saucepan – For making the homemade caramel glaze. Use a medium-sized one to avoid spills when it bubbles up.
- Cooling Rack – Allows the cake to cool evenly after baking and before glazing.
- Toothpick or Cake Tester – Helps check doneness without overbaking.
Storage
- Room Temperature: If you're serving the cake within a couple of days, you can store it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Use a cake dome or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it moist.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let slices come to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Freezer: This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temp before glazing or serving.
The Old-Fashioned Trick That Makes Apple Pecan Cake Irresistible
There’s a little old-fashioned secret I learned from my grandmother that I now follow every time I make this Apple Pecan Cake—let it rest overnight. I used to think fresh-from-the-oven was always best, but she’d gently remind me that some cakes, especially the ones with fruit and spice, need time to settle. “Let the flavors get to know each other,” she’d say with a wink. And she was right.
Once this cake cools and rests for several hours—or even better, overnight—the apples release their juices into the crumb, the toasted pecans infuse the batter with warmth, and the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves deepen into something truly magical. What tastes good on day one becomes unforgettable on day two. The texture softens just enough, and every bite feels like it’s been kissed by time and memory.
So now, when I bake this Apple Pecan Cake for holidays or gatherings, I always plan ahead. I make it the night before, knowing full well that a little patience delivers big flavor. It’s a humble trick, but one that turns this already comforting dessert into something that feels like it’s been passed down through generations—because in my kitchen, it has.
FAQ
What is a Mary Jane cake?
A Mary Jane cake is a rich, old-fashioned dessert inspired by the classic Mary Jane candy. It usually features molasses, brown sugar, and peanut butter, resulting in a dense, chewy texture and nostalgic flavor. This cake is especially popular in Southern baking and is loved for its warm, comforting taste—perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
Can I add apples to a cake mix?
Yes, you can absolutely add apples to a cake mix! Chopped fresh apples, applesauce, or even shredded apples add moisture, natural sweetness, and a touch of texture. Just be sure to balance the added moisture by reducing other liquids slightly. Apple cinnamon cake is a great way to upgrade boxed mix into something extra cozy.
What makes bundt cake moist?
A moist bundt cake usually comes down to the right ratio of fat and liquid—think sour cream, buttermilk, or oil. These ingredients keep the crumb tender and prevent dryness, especially since bundt cakes bake longer. Proper mixing and not overbaking are also key. A glaze or syrup added after baking can also lock in moisture beautifully.
What is the best flavor frosting for butter pecan cake?
The best frosting for butter pecan cake is typically a rich, creamy buttercream—especially brown butter or maple frosting. These flavors complement the nutty, caramel notes of the cake beautifully. Cream cheese frosting is another cozy option that adds tangy contrast. Either way, choose a frosting that enhances the warmth and nuttiness of the butter pecan base.
Why This Apple Pecan Cake Belongs in Your Fall Baking Lineup
There’s something timeless and comforting about baking with apples, spices, and a touch of love—and this Apple Pecan Cake captures it all. From its tender crumb to that rich caramel glaze, every slice feels like a warm invitation to slow down and savor the season. Whether you're hosting a fall gathering or simply want to fill your kitchen with the cozy aroma of homemade cake, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
If you’re looking for more cozy bakes that bring comfort and flavor together, try my Banana Loaf with Applesauce for a moist, naturally sweet twist, or indulge in the rich, cream-filled magic of these Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies—another fall favorite your friends and family will adore.
Bake with heart, and don’t forget to leave a comment if you give this Apple Pecan Cake a try. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Apple Pecan Cake recipe:
Apple Pecan Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 1 12-cup bundt pan Greased and floured
- 1 Electric mixer Hand or stand mixer
- 2 Mixing bowls Medium and large sizes
- 1 Rubber spatula For folding ingredients
- 1 Saucepan For caramel glaze
- 1 Wire rack For cooling cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened (2 sticks)
- 1 cup granulated sugar packed
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup apple cider or apple juice
- 3 cups diced apples peeled and cored (Granny Smith/Honeycrisp)
- 1 ½ cups toasted pecans coarsely chopped
For the Caramel Glaze
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven
- Toast pecans
- Mix dry ingredients
- Cream butter and sugars
- Add eggs and vanilla
- Alternate dry & cider
- Fold in apples & pecans
- Transfer to pan
- Bake cake
- Cool cake
- Make caramel glaze
- Pour glaze over cake
- Garnish with pecans
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