Ingredients & Their Purpose

Gather these ingredients for a perfectly balanced cake with depth, moisture, and irresistible flavor:

• 3/4 cup cooking oil – Provides moisture and ensures a tender crumb.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps with structure.
• 4 large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds richness.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the batter.
• 1 tsp baking soda – Leavening agent that gives the cake lift.
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the apple flavor.
• 1/2 tsp sea salt – Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – Brings a subtle, aromatic sweetness.
• 3 1/2 cups Granny Smith apples (peeled and diced) – Tart, firm apples hold shape and contrast the sweetness.
• 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds crunch and a buttery, nutty richness.

For the Caramel Glaze:

• 1/3 cup butter – The base of a rich glaze.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar – Sweetens and deepens the caramel flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk – Smooths and loosens the glaze to pourable consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Rounds out the caramel with extra warmth.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or a large Bundt pan.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooking oil, sugar, and eggs. Beat until the mixture is light, smooth, and creamy.
3. Add dry ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and sea salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
4. Fold in the good stuff: Gently stir in the vanilla extract, diced apples, and chopped pecans. The batter will be thick and chunky—this is perfect!
5. Pour and bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Make the glaze: While the cake cools slightly, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and milk, and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
7. Glaze the cake: Pour the warm caramel glaze over the slightly cooled cake. Let it soak in and set before serving.

 Why Everyone Loves This Apple Pecan Cake

This cake has it all: moist texture, complex flavors, and nostalgic appeal. The combination of tart apples and toasted pecans creates a beautiful balance, while the caramel glaze seals the deal with its luxurious finish.

It’s a Southern classic that never goes out of style.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith to prevent sogginess.
• Toast your pecans beforehand for an extra nutty punch.
• Let the cake cool slightly before adding the glaze so it doesn’t soak in completely or run off.
• Store in an airtight container—this cake is even better the next day!

 Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. Pair with hot coffee, chai tea, or apple cider for the perfect fall dessert experience.