Apple Spice Olive Oil Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Recipe

The Apple Spice Olive Oil Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream is a warm hug in dessert form, combining the cozy spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with the bright zest of citrus and the tender moisture from olive oil. This cake boasts tender chunks of spiced apples baked right in, delivering a beautiful balance of sweet and slightly tart flavors. Finished with a luxuriously smooth salted caramel buttercream, every bite feels indulgent without being overly heavy. If you’ve been searching for that perfect treat to impress guests or simply brighten your day, this Apple Spice Olive Oil Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All these ingredients might seem straightforward, but each plays an essential role in the magic that happens when you bake this cake. From the richness of the olive oil to the fragrant spices and fresh citrus zest, every element enhances the flavor and texture beautifully.

• 3 eggs: Provide structure and moisture while helping to bind everything together perfectly.
• 1 1/2 cups olive oil: Adds tenderness and a subtle fruity note that elevates the cake beyond your typical spice cake.
• 1 1/4 cups sugar: Sweetens while helping to keep the cake moist and tender.
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk: Adds richness and moisture for a wonderfully soft crumb.
• 1 tbsp vanilla: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Juice and zest of 2 oranges: Infuse a bright, fresh citrus flavor that lifts the spices beautifully.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a sharp aromatic contrast enhancing the overall brightness.
• 2 cups plain flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and substance.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Works with baking soda for a perfect lift.
• 2 tsp cinnamon: Fills the cake with classic autumnal warmth.
• 1 tsp cloves: Adds a deep, aromatic spice note.
• 1 tsp nutmeg: Enhances the spice blend with a subtle nutty flavor.
• 2 diced apples: Packed with cinnamon, sugar, and a touch of flour to keep them tender and evenly distributed in each slice.
• 200 g butter (soft/room temperature): For a luscious, creamy buttercream base.
• 100 g powdered sugar: Sweetens and lightens the buttercream texture.
• 1.5 tbsp whole milk or heavy cream: Creates a smooth, spreadable frosting.
• 1/2 tbsp vanilla: Imparts a warm, comforting flavor to the buttercream.
• Caramel sauce: For swirling into the buttercream and adding an irresistible salty-sweet finish.
• Flaky salt (optional): A final touch to contrast and highlight the sugary caramel.

How to Make Apple Spice Olive Oil Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream

Step 1: Prepare and Spice the Apples

Start by mixing your diced apples with cinnamon, brown sugar, flour, and salt. This spice blend not only flavors the apples but also helps them retain their shape and moisture during baking, ensuring every bite bursts with that delightful spiced apple goodness.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This mix of spices and leavening agents creates a perfectly flavoured and balanced base for your cake. Whisk thoroughly to evenly distribute all the ingredients.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

Beat together the eggs, olive oil, sugar, milk, vanilla, and the fresh citrus elements: orange juice, orange zest, and lemon zest. This wet mix gives the cake its moisture and brightness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry, Fold in Apples

Pour the wet mixture into your dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. Then lightly fold in the spiced apples; be careful not to overmix to maintain tender apple chunks.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Quickly pour your batter into a prepared 8-inch round pan lined with parchment and lightly oiled. Pop it into a 375°F oven and bake for about an hour, starting to check around 45 minutes for doneness. The cake should spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 6: Cool and Prepare Buttercream

Let your cake cool completely, ideally overnight, which allows flavors to fully develop. Meanwhile, whip the softened butter until light and fluffy, gradually adding powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla. Continue beating until your salted caramel buttercream is smooth and glorious.

Step 7: Assemble and Decorate

Spread the rich buttercream on top of your cooled cake, swirling in the luscious caramel sauce to create beautiful ribbons of sweet, salty goodness. If you like, sprinkle flaky salt on top to elevate the flavors even more.

How to Serve Apple Spice Olive Oil Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation, consider sprinkling extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few thin apple slices arranged elegantly can add visual appeal and a hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For something heartier, try serving alongside a warm mulled cider or a cup of spiced chai tea to complement the cake’s warm spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into thick wedges and stacking them with layers of buttercream and caramel in between for a rustic cake tower. Another fun idea is to serve mini versions in cupcake liners, perfect for parties and easy sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Apple Spice Olive Oil Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream tightly with plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, maintaining its moistness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic then foil for up to 3 months. Freeze the frosting separately. Thaw both at room temperature before assembling to preserve freshness and texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, gently reheat individual servings in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Avoid reheating the entire cake once frosted, as the buttercream can melt and lose its structure.

FAQs

Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil if you prefer a milder flavor. However, olive oil adds a unique richness that complements the spices beautifully.

What type of apples work best in this cake?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their texture well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet spices and caramel.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the plain flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still shine.

Is it possible to make the salted caramel buttercream ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the buttercream a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Before frosting, bring it back to room temperature and beat briefly to restore its fluffiness.

How much caramel sauce should I use for swirling?

About 1/4 cup of caramel sauce is perfect to swirl into the buttercream, giving every bite a balanced sweet and salty flavor without overwhelming the cake.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Spice Olive Oil Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream captures the very essence of cozy, comforting flavors with a sophisticated twist. Baking it not only fills your kitchen with heavenly aromas but also rewards you with a cake that’s moist, tender, and decadently frosted. I wholeheartedly encourage you to treat yourself and your loved ones to this luscious dessert — it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

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