Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Ireland! This Dublin's Finest Caramel Apple Cake is not just a dessert—it's a mouthwatering masterpiece that combines the rich warmth of traditional Irish baking with the irresistible allure of caramel-drenched apples. Imagine a perfectly moist cake that's bursting with tender apple chunks, infused with warming cinnamon, and generously drizzled with golden caramel sauce. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a slice of heaven, this recipe promises to be your new favorite indulgence.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 cups chopped apples
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
- Slice and serve at room temperature, optionally garnishing with additional caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips
- Choose the right apples: Opt for firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that will hold their shape during baking.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
- Don't overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and light.
- Check for doneness: Use the toothpick test—it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling is crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding caramel sauce to prevent it from becoming too runny.
- Make ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together.
- Storage tip: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 90mg
