Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a cozy, one-pan dessert that bursts with the flavors of fall, and this Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Whether you’re baking for a casual family dinner or a festive get-together, it strikes that amazing balance between tender cake, warm spices, and caramel-kissed apples that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Jump to:

• In the Kitchen
• Ingredients at a Glance
• How to Make Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe
• Things to Remember
• Ways to Serve It
• Make-Ahead & Keeping Fresh
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts
• Full Printable Recipe

Ingredients at a Glance

For this Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe, the key is choosing quality, seasonal apples and fresh butter. The rest of the ingredients are common kitchen staples that make assembling straightforward.

• Apples (Granny Smith preferred): Choose firm, tart apples to balance the sweetness and hold their shape when cooked.
• Butter: Real butter adds richness and depth in both cake and frosting.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang that brightens the flavor.
• Brown Sugar: For that warm molasses note in the apple topping and caramel drizzle.
• Cinnamon: Don’t skimp—freshly ground cinnamon makes the spice really pop.

How to Make Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe

Step 1 — Prepare the Cake Base

Start by heating your oven to 375°F and prepping a large 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with non-stick spray. This sheet pan size is perfect for an even layer of cake. Next, whisk together the dry ingredients – flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt – in a big bowl until combined and fragrant. Melt the butter with water in a saucepan over medium heat, watching closely until it simmers. Pour this hot mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined; this step starts the cooking process and develops that toasty, rich flavor. Add in the beaten eggs, sour cream, and vanilla, mixing gently to a smooth batter with no lumps. Pour it carefully into your pan and pop it in the oven for about 18-22 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean and the edges look golden and set.

Step 2 — Mix and Spread the Spiced Frosting

While the cake is still warm, start the frosting. Melt the butter and milk together over medium heat, heating until the mixture just simmers. Off the heat, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon into the liquid until thick, glossy, and spreadable. This frosting should be a bit runnier than cold frosting so it spreads smoothly over the warm cake, seeping into every nook. Pour and spread the frosting evenly, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature so the frosting sets with a soft, sugary crust on top.

Step 3 — Cook the Apple Topping to Perfection

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat then add the diced apples. Cook gently for 5 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this over the apples and stir well to coat. Continue cooking while stirring occasionally until the apples become tender but still hold their shape—this usually takes several more minutes. The topping shouldn’t be mushy, so keep a close eye. Once cooled to room temperature, spread these juicy, spiced apples evenly on top of the frosted cake, then drizzle with your favorite caramel sauce to add a luscious, signature touch.

Ways to Serve It

Finishing Touches

I love adding a drizzle of warm salted caramel over the apples just before serving; it amps up the indulgence and makes each bite silky smooth. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and helps balance the soft textures of cake and fruit.

Plays Well With

This Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A cup of spiced chai or coffee also complements the warm cinnamon and caramel notes perfectly for a cozy treat.

Simple Plating Upgrades

For a casual family dinner, serve straight from the pan with a dusting of powdered sugar. For special occasions, cut neat squares, arrange on a pretty plate, and add a small scoop of ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream on the side. Garnish with a thin apple slice twisted into a fan for an elegant yet approachable vibe.

Make-Ahead & Keeping Fresh

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The cake soaks up moisture from the apples and frosting, becoming even more tender. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to take off the chill and let flavors bloom.

Freezing Tips

This cake freezes well without the apple topping. I recommend freezing unfrosted cake layers or cake slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To defrost, move to the fridge overnight, then frost and top with apples when ready to serve. This keeps textures fresh and prevents sogginess.

Reheating Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe Without Drying Out

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave on medium power for short 20-30 second bursts, covering loosely with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture. Alternatively, warm slices in a low 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes wrapped in foil. Avoid overheating to keep the cake tender, and add a dab of butter or honey on top if it feels dry when reheated.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Caramel Apple Sheet Cake Recipe as satisfying and approachable as I do. It’s a dessert that feels special without requiring fuss, perfect for cozy nights or crowd-pleasing celebrations. Let those apples shine, the caramel drizzle seduce your senses, and the cake’s tender crumb bring warm comfort. Happy baking, friend—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

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Full Printable Recipe