Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or coat it with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Apple Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, walnuts, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using another large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy cake.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Incorporate Apple Mixture
Fold in the apple and walnut mixture, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Prepare the Caramel Glaze
While the cake is cooling, warm the caramel sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Once pourable, drizzle it over the cooled cake, spreading it evenly.
Serve and Enjoy
Sprinkle with fresh cinnamon and let the cake cool slightly before serving. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
What to Serve with Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake
While this cake is divine on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of complements:
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a rich, creamy contrast to the cake’s caramel glaze.
Fresh Tea: A warm cup of tea, especially chai or spiced tea, complements the cake’s autumnal flavors.
Fresh Berries: A tart berry salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet cake.
Top Tips for Perfecting Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake
Perfectly Chopped Walnuts: For a consistent texture, chop the walnuts finely. This ensures they’re evenly distributed and add a pleasant crunch to every bite.
Butter Temperature: Always use softened butter to ensure the cake has a smooth and velvety texture. Avoid melting the butter as it might affect the cake’s structure.
Caramel Glaze: For a thicker glaze, let the caramel sauce simmer a bit longer or mix in a tablespoon of honey.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen cake at room temperature or briefly reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For a crispy exterior, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Mom’s Apple Walnut Cake with Caramel Glaze is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience of luxurious flavors and textures that bring comfort and joy. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging solo, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your home.
So, why not gather your ingredients and try making it today? With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious and satisfying treat.