This Martha Stewart Caramel Apple Cake is a moist and spiced recipe, which includes fresh Granny Smith apples and a buttery caramel glaze. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Martha Stewart Caramel Apple Cake Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups canola oil
- 3 eggs
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 5 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and sliced into 1-inch pieces (about 5 cups)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the caramel glaze:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream

How To Make Martha Stewart Caramel Apple Cake
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter and flour a 13×9 inch baking pan.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together brown sugar, white sugar, and canola oil. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine batter: Mix the dry ingredients into the wet sugar mixture. Stir in chopped apples, walnuts, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake the cake: Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
- Make caramel glaze: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Stir in brown sugar, white sugar, and salt for 2 minutes. Increase heat to medium-high, pour in heavy cream, and simmer for 2 more minutes until bubbly.
- Glaze the cake: Poke holes all over the top of the warm cake using a skewer or toothpick. Pour the caramel glaze over the top and let it settle for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips
- What are the best apples for this cake? Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape and add flavor balance.
- How to keep cake from being too oily: Measure oil accurately and mix until just combined.
- Can I use pecans instead of walnuts? Yes, pecans are a great substitute for a similar crunch.
- Why poke holes in the cake? This helps the caramel glaze soak in for extra moisture and flavor.
- How do I know the cake is done? Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
What To Serve With Caramel Apple Cake
This sweet and spiced dessert pairs well with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Warm apple cider
- Whipped cream
- Salted caramel sauce drizzle
- A cup of strong black coffee

How To Store Caramel Apple Cake
Refrigerate: Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Caramel Apple Cake Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 518
- Total Fat: 30.7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 46.7mg
- Sodium: 208.1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 57.5g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.8g
- Sugars: 36.2g
- Protein: 5.1g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I make this cake a day ahead?
Yes, it’s even better the next day as the flavors meld and the glaze soaks in.
Can I make this cake in a bundt pan?
Yes, but baking time may vary slightly. Grease the bundt pan well and check for doneness.
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, the cake will still be flavorful and moist without them.
Why is my cake dense?
Overmixing the batter or too much flour can cause a dense texture. Mix just until combined.
What can I use instead of heavy cream in the glaze?
Half-and-half can work, but the glaze may be slightly thinner.
Try More Recipes:
Martha Stewart Caramel Apple Cake
Description
A rich and spiced apple cake topped with a buttery caramel glaze, perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Cake:
Glaze:
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 13×9″ pan.
- Beat sugars and oil, then add eggs one at a time.
- In a separate bowl, mix dry ingredients.
- Combine dry and wet mixtures. Fold in apples, walnuts, and vanilla.
- Pour into pan and bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Melt butter for glaze, stir in sugars and salt, then add cream and simmer.
- Poke holes in warm cake and pour glaze over top. Let sit before serving.
