If you’re looking for a dessert that’s bursting with warmth and rich flavors, the Caramel Spice Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This cake combines the cozy spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with the luscious sweetness of caramel for a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something comforting, this cake offers moist, spiced layers that melt delightfully in your mouth, delivering that nostalgic taste of fall and a touch of indulgence all in one slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Caramel Spice Cake Recipe is a breeze because each one plays a crucial role in crafting its iconic flavor and perfect texture. From the fragrant spices to the moistening applesauce, every single item works in harmony to create a cake that’s both tender and packed with character.
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure and a tender crumb to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise while keeping it soft and light.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds extra lift for a fluffy finish.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Provides warm, sweet spice depth that’s quintessentially cozy.
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty warmth that perfectly complements cinnamon.
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger: Introduces a gentle kick that brightens the spice blend.
- 0.75 cups unsweetened applesauce: Brings moisture and natural sweetness, reducing the need for extra oil.
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar: Adds the crisp sweetness that balances the rich caramel.
- 0.5 cups brown sugar: Contributes deep molasses flavor and helps keep the cake tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together with richness and stability.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers a mellow, sweet aroma that rounds out the spices.
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist without weighing it down.
- 1 cup caramel sauce: The star ingredient that turns this spice cake into a luscious celebration of flavor.
How to Make Caramel Spice Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a large bowl. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed, giving every bite that signature warm, spicy note you’re craving in the Caramel Spice Cake Recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together the unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth and luscious. The applesauce here is a genius swap that adds moisture and reduces fat, keeping the cake incredibly tender yet light.
Step 3: Combine and Add Caramel
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently but thoroughly for a batter that’s perfectly balanced. Finally, swirl in the caramel sauce — this is where the magic happens, infusing the cake batter with rich, buttery sweetness that sets this Caramel Spice Cake Recipe apart from the rest.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined cake pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with the comforting aroma of spices and caramel, promising a delicious payoff.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This step helps the cake set perfectly so each slice holds its shape while still being tender and moist.
How to Serve Caramel Spice Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Caramel Spice Cake Recipe by topping slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce adds a beautiful finishing touch and an extra layer of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or a rich coffee to complement the sweet and spicy notes. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples can add a refreshing contrast and a pop of color to your dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, consider serving the cake in petite glass jars with layers of caramel sauce and whipped cream. Alternatively, cut into small squares and top each bite with a pecan or walnut for texture and an elegant touch. These ideas make the dessert not just delicious but memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Caramel Spice Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it a bit longer, the fridge will help preserve freshness for up to a week but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain that same moist, tender crumb and delightful spice profile that makes this recipe so special.
Reheating
If you’re reheating slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm gently in the oven to revive the cake’s softness and aroma. Serving with a fresh drizzle of caramel or a scoop of ice cream can bring it back to fresh-baked bliss in no time.
FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor of your Caramel Spice Cake Recipe will remain just as delightful.
Is the applesauce essential in this recipe?
The applesauce is a wonderful addition that adds moisture and reduces the oil needed, making the cake lighter and less greasy. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with mashed banana or an equal amount of yogurt for a similar effect.
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Definitely. Homemade caramel sauce adds a personal touch and a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Just make sure your caramel isn’t too hot when mixing it into the batter to keep the texture smooth and even.
How spicy is the Caramel Spice Cake Recipe?
The spice blend is balanced to provide warm, comforting notes rather than heat. If you prefer a milder cake, you can reduce the ground ginger or nutmeg slightly, but those spices are key to achieving the signature flavor.
What’s the best way to serve this cake for a gathering?
Serve the cake sliced with optional whipped cream and caramel drizzle, accompanied by coffee or tea. For a crowd, consider cutting it into bite-sized squares and offering toothpicks for easy serving — it’s a surefire hit!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Caramel Spice Cake Recipe that makes it a cozy choice for any celebration or quiet night in. Its harmonious blend of warm spices and rich caramel strikes a perfect balance between comfort and indulgence. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — it’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your baking repertoire just as it is in mine.
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Caramel Spice Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A moist and flavorful Caramel Spice Cake combining warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with rich caramel sauce, perfect for a cozy dessert or special occasion treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients
- 0.75 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger until they are evenly combined and fragrant.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate all wet ingredients smoothly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Incorporate Caramel Sauce: Fold in the caramel sauce carefully, distributing it evenly throughout the batter for pockets of sweet caramel flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving. Optionally, drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for added sweetness.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade caramel sauce.
- Applesauce replaces some oil for a healthier, moist cake.
- Do not overmix batter to keep the cake tender and light.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
