Irresistible Autumn Apple Pecan Cake Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Fall in love with the warm and inviting flavors of our irresistible Autumn Apple Pecan Cake. Perfect for cozy evenings, this delightful cake combines the classic sweetness of apples with the nutty crunch of pecans. This recipe is an ideal treat for autumn gatherings or quiet nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Pecan Cake is a symphony of textures and flavors that perfectly encapsulates the essence of autumn. With every bite, you’ll experience the moistness of fresh apples paired with the satisfying crunch of pecans. It’s a wonderful make-ahead dessert that only gets better with time, ideal for holiday entertaining.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, this recipe is both simple and rewarding. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own, or with a side of vanilla ice cream, making it a go-to dish for various occasions.

Context/Background

The Apple Pecan Cake draws inspiration from classic Southern baking, where pecans feature prominently in many desserts. The combination of apples and nuts has been a hallmark of autumn recipes for centuries, celebrated for their seasonal availability and complementary flavors. This cake is a modern tribute to those traditional southern flavors with an easy-to-make approach.

Recipe Details

Serves: 8

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples

1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until well combined.

Fold in the chopped apples and pecans until evenly distributed.
Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack before serving.

Tips for Perfect Autumn Apple Pecan Cake

Use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor.
Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.

Let the cake cool completely for easier slicing and serving.
Experiment with adding a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra layer of autumnal spice.

Serving Suggestions

For an indulgent treat, serve this Apple Pecan Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It can also be enjoyed as a simple snack with a hot cup of spiced tea or coffee.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, the cake can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. To refresh, simply warm in a 300°F oven until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Apple Pecan Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a cozy invitation to enjoy the flavors of the fall season. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this cake is sure to delight with its rustic charm and delicious taste. Give it a try and let the flavors of autumn fill your home.