Rustic Harvest Cake

This mouthwatering country-style cake bursts with the flavors of fresh apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg, complemented by a rich caramel drizzle. With a moist and tender crumb, this delightful dessert captures the essence of cozy autumn afternoons. A perfect balance of sweetness and warmth that will leave you longing for another slice.
ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups grated apples, peeled and squeezed dry
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Caramel drizzle:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- 2.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- 3.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- 4.
Beat in the eggs one at a time and add the vanilla extract.
- 5.
Gradually add the grated apples and mix until well combined.
- 6.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if desired.
- 7.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 8.
Meanwhile, prepare the caramel drizzle. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 9.
Once the cake is out of the oven, poke several holes into the warm cake using a skewer or fork. Pour the warm caramel drizzle all over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- 10.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- 11.
Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve.