Apple Gooey Butter Cake

Apple Gooey Butter Cake is the kind of dessert that wraps you in a warm hug, beckoning you to gather around the kitchen table with family and friends. Imagine a soft, spiced cake that practically melts in your mouth, layered with a gooey cream cheese topping, and finished with a decadent salted caramel drizzle. The fragrant spices wafting through your kitchen create a cozy autumn ambiance that makes this dessert perfect for any gathering. As you slice into the cake, the warm, inviting flavors remind you of crisp fall days, family traditions, and the joy of sharing delightful treats with loved ones. Trust me, this isn’t just another dessert; it’s a love letter to your taste buds—one you’ll want to make all season long!

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Why This Recipe Works

Apple Gooey Butter Cake masterfully combines textures and flavors, creating a delightful experience with each bite. The soft, spiced cake practically melts in your mouth while the gooey cream cheese layer adds that luscious richness. The hint of brown butter deepens the flavor profile, while the warming spices infuse a cozy essence reminiscent of autumn. Together, the flavors play beautifully, leaving you craving more. It’s the perfect dance of sweetness and warmth, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Gooey Butter Cake

You’ll find that this cake isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s a whole experience! Each slice calls to mind family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. Imagine the smiles as you serve this delightful treat, sparking conversations about memories and traditions. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this cake is perfect for every occasion. The appeal of Apple Gooey Butter Cake lies not only in its taste but in the sentiment and joy it brings along with it. It’s sure to find a place in your heart—as well as your recipe box!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (268 g) apples, peeled and diced into ½ inch pieces (about 2 apples)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground allspice
• 2 tbsp (28 g) brown sugar
• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
• 2 1/2 cups (325 g) powdered sugar
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (141 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground allspice
• 3/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/8 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 5 tbsp (70 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, at room temperature
• 1/4 – 1/2 tsp sea salt, depending on your preference
• 1 tsp vanilla

Preparing the Brown Butter

Begin by Browning the Butter

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a pot over medium heat. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it becomes foamy and develops a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 5-6 minutes. Once it reaches that lovely brown hue, take it off the heat and cool it in the fridge until it’s easy to handle.

Making the Spiced Apples

Cook the Apples

In a medium-sized pan, combine the diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and brown sugar. Cook them over medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and the juices to thicken. Once they’ve cooled, they’re ready to add into the cake!

Crafting the Gooey Cream Cheese Layer

Combine the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, egg, and egg yolk with a mixer until smooth—this should take about 1-2 minutes. Slowly sift in half of the powdered sugar, mixing until everything is well combined. After that, add the remaining sugar, mixing just until everything comes together. Set this glossy mixture aside.

Baking the Brown Butter Spice Cake

Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Take a 9-inch springform pan, grease it well, and line the bottom with parchment paper. This will help your cake come out easily once it’s baked.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will give your cake a wonderful depth of flavor.

Mix Wet Batter Ingredients

Once the brown butter has cooled a bit, whip it using an electric mixer at high speed until it’s pale and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is light and airy again. Then, mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Carefully add the flour mixture and buttermilk to your creamy mixture. Use low speed to mix everything until it turns nice and smooth.

Layer the Cake

Now, pour half of the batter into your prepared pan. Spread the cooled spiced apples evenly over the top. Then, pour the remaining batter over the apples, smoothing it out. Finally, spread the cream cheese mixture across the top. Bake your cake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center has a slight jiggle and the edges are golden brown.

Making the Salted Caramel Sauce

Cook the Sugar

In a medium saucepan, heat granulated white sugar over medium-low heat. Stir until the sugar melts and turns golden—this process could take about 20 minutes, so be patient!

Add Butter and Cream

Once your sugar is beautifully melted, mix in the unsalted butter, stirring until it’s fully incorporated. Then, gradually add the heavy cream. You may need to adjust the heat a little to keep everything smooth and blended.

Finish the Sauce

To finish your sauce, stir in sea salt and vanilla, then let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. After this, allow it to cool completely before drizzling it over the cake.

Assembling the Cake

Cool and Serve

After the cake has baked perfectly, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a bit. Use a butter knife to loosen the edges from the pan and gently transfer the cake to a serving plate. Drizzle your delicious caramel sauce over the top, and it’s ready to be served! For the best taste, enjoy it at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Apple Gooey Butter Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cozy cup of coffee or warm spiced cider on the side is the perfect touch to elevate your treat, creating a delightful autumn experience.

Tips for Success

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best blending results.
• Feel free to adjust the spices to match your personal preference.
• Allow the cake to cool fully for perfect layers and texture before serving.

Variations

Get creative! Swap in different fruits like pears or even pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist. You could toss in some chopped nuts for added texture and crunch!

Storage Tips

Keep any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheating it slightly before serving can bring back the wonderful flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Certainly! Pears, peaches, or even a berry medley can create fantastic flavors in this cake.

2. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes! Tightly wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.

3. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
Regular milk combined with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice works perfectly as a substitute.

4. How do I know when the cake is done?
The center should remain shiny and jiggle slightly, while the edges should turn golden brown.

5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator.

Creating this Apple Gooey Butter Cake isn’t just about following a list of steps; it’s about evoking cherished memories with each slice. With its warm flavors and sweet notes, this dessert becomes a heartwarming centerpiece at your autumn gatherings. The fantastic combination of textures and tastes promises every bite is a moment to savor. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the delicious aroma of this cake fill your home! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful masterpiece!

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