Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWalking into the kitchen on a crisp autumn afternoon, the scent of spiced apples and melting chocolate fills the air, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge. This is the magic of my Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake—an enchanting dessert that perfectly marries cozy fall flavors with a touch of decadence. With each layered slice, you’re not just enjoying a cake; you’re savoring memories of harvest festivals and family gatherings. This dessert is not only quick to prepare but also an absolute showstopper for any celebration, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Imagine serving this at your next fall gathering, where friends and family can’t resist a second helping. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with this delightful cake that truly feels like a warm embrace? Why Is This Cake So Irresistible? Dreamy Flavor Combination: This Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake is a brilliant blend of chocolate, apples, and salted caramel that creates a taste sensation unlike any other. Quick and Easy: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward, ensuring a delicious result with minimal fuss. Perfect for Celebrations: With its stunning layers and festive appeal, it’s the ultimate centerpiece for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any fall gathering. Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients like peanut butter for a nut-free version, or even experiment with different fruits like pears for a unique twist! After enjoying this cake, you might find yourself exploring more delightful recipes, such as Caramel Peach Dump or Vegan Caramelized Onion, to satisfy your sweet tooth and keep your kitchen bustling with joy. Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake Ingredients For the Cake All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake. Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture. Unsweetened cocoa powder – Gives rich chocolate flavor. Baking soda & baking powder – Essential leavening agents for a perfect rise. Salt – Enhances the overall flavors. Cinnamon & allspice – Infuse warm, autumn spice. Eggs (3, at room temperature) – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture. Canola oil – Keeps the cake moist; substitute with any neutral oil. Unsweetened applesauce – Adds moisture and a touch of apple flavor. Vanilla extract – Provides aromatic and rich flavor. Coffee (or warm apple cider) – Intensifies the chocolate flavor in the cake. For the Caramel Sauce Heavy cream – Creates a luscious texture in the caramel. Sugar – Sweetens the caramel. Honey or corn syrup – Aids in caramelizing; light corn syrup is a good substitute. Apple cider – Adds sweetness and deep flavor to the caramel sauce. Salted butter – Imparts richness to the caramel. Bourbon – Optional, adds depth and complexity to the caramel sauce. Flaky salt – A must for garnish, adding delightful contrast. For the Frosting Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened) – Creamy base for the frosting. Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened) – Adds tang and smoothness to the frosting. Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting. Creamy peanut butter (½ cup) – Star ingredient, adding richness and depth. Salted caramel (1/3 cup) – Flavoring element, boosting the frosting’s richness. Additional vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the frosting flavor. Salted peanuts (½ cup, chopped) – Provides crunch and flavor for garnish. For the Ganache and Decoration Bittersweet chocolate (8 ounces, chopped) – For a rich ganache coating. Heavy cream (½ cup) – Used to mix with chocolate for a smooth ganache. Small apples (3, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – Topping for freshness and crunch. Wooden sticks (3) – Fun garnish to resemble caramel apples. With these delightful ingredients, creating your Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake will be a joyful experience that brings warmth and deliciousness to your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake. Step 1: Prepare Cake Batter In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3 eggs, ½ cup of canola oil, 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture should look silky after about 2 minutes of mixing. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon allspice. Ensure there are no lumps; this should be a light, fluffy mixture. This is where the foundation of your flavorful Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake begins! Step 3: Mix and Pour Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, pouring in 1 cup of coffee or warm apple cider. Stir gently until everything is just blended and combined—over-mixing could lead to a dense texture. Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared pans, ensuring a smooth top for even baking. Step 4: Bake Place the cake pans into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. A light, chocolatey aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake, signaling it’s almost time for the delicious layers to come together! Step 5: Make Caramel Sauce While the cakes are baking, prepare your salted caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of honey, and ½ cup of apple cider. Stir occasionally until the mixture turns a beautiful golden color. Carefully stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 4 tablespoons of salted butter, and optional bourbon; continue cooking until the temperature reaches 210°F (99°C). Step 6: Prepare Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 4 ounces of softened cream cheese together until creamy and well combined. Gradually sift in 2 cups of powdered sugar, then mix in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter, a pinch of salt, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and a generous ⅓ cup of the reserved salted caramel. Mix on medium speed until fluffy. Step 7: Assemble Cake Once the cakes have cooled, remove them from the pans and level the tops if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate, spreading a generous amount of peanut butter frosting between the layers. Repeat with the second layer, covering the entire cake with the remaining frosting for a delightful finish and decadent taste. Step 8: Coat with Ganache To create the ganache topping, melt 8 ounces of chopped bittersweet chocolate and ½ cup of heavy cream in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until smooth. Pour this shiny chocolate ganache over the frosted cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides beautifully. Let it cool until set. Step 9: Final Touch Before serving your Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake, heat the remaining caramel sauce briefly until pourable, then drizzle it over the top. For an artistic flair, dip small apple slices into the remaining caramel and arrange them along with wooden sticks on the cake. Each slice will be a sweet celebration of fall flavors! How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake Room Temperature: Enjoy the cake at room temperature for up to 2 hours; this allows the flavors to shine before storing any leftovers. Fridge: Keep the leftover Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating: If you enjoy your cake warm, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds until just warmed. This enhances the gooey caramel and comfort of the cake. What to Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake Imagine a warm gathering filled with laughter, where the heavenly scent of caramel and spices fills the air, inviting everyone to indulge in a delightful meal. Spiced Cider: The warm, comforting notes of spiced cider perfectly complement the rich flavors of the cake, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the cake’s rich chocolate and caramel, balancing its sweetness. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and soft textures add a savory touch, making for a delicious and hearty side dish that harmonizes with the cake. Pumpkin Soup: Silky and spiced, pumpkin soup adds warmth and a pleasant earthy flavor that pairs well with the dessert’s sweetness. Cheese Platter: Offering a selection of sharp cheeses can provide a delightful contrast to the cake’s richness, sparking interesting flavor combinations. Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea enhance the overall experience, creating a cozy and inviting drink option alongside the dessert. Chocolate Hazelnut Tart: For those seeking a double chocolate treat, this tart can echo flavors in the cake while adding a new dimension of indulgence. Caramel Apple Martini: This playful cocktail reflects the cake’s apple and caramel elements, making it an exciting drink choice for gatherings. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The fresh burst of flavor from the strawberries enhances the cake’s decadence, providing a refreshing contrast with each bite. Mixed Berry Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad brightens the palate and balances the richness of the cake, making it a perfect companion for dessert. Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake. This enhances the overall texture of your Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake. Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just blended. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so keep it light! Caramel Consistency: Use a candy thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature of your caramel. This helps you achieve that perfect golden color without burning, ensuring your salted caramel is deliciously smooth. Chill Before Ganache: After frosting, chill your cake for about an hour before adding ganache. This will help the layers set properly, making it easier to apply the chocolate coating. Flavors Amplified: To enhance flavors, consider brewing your coffee with a hint of cinnamon or using warm apple cider instead. This simple substitution takes your Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake to the next level! Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake Variations Feel free to play with this cake recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs—each variation brings new excitement to your baking! Nut-Free: Substitute creamy peanut butter with sun butter for a delicious nut-free option that still delivers a rich, creamy flavor. Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate ganache frosting instead of peanut butter frosting for an even more indulgent treat. The smooth chocolate glaze enhances the overall richness. Fruity Twist: Swap out small apples for pears in the cake or use a mix of both to introduce new textures and tastes. Pears add a subtle sweetness and softness that pairs wonderfully with caramel. Spiced Caramel: Infuse your caramel sauce with a dash of cinnamon or vanilla to elevate the flavor profile. This adds a cozy autumnal warmth that resonates beautifully with the cake. Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the frosting. This way, you can still enjoy this scrumptious cake without the use of animal products! Addicted to Crunch: Incorporate crushed salted peanuts in the cake batter for an added crunch throughout. The delightful texture will surprise your guests in every slice. Layered Delight: Create a multi-layered cake by dividing the batter into more pans for thinner layers. Stack these higher to create an impressive, towering dessert for special occasions. Adding your personal touch to the Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake will make it even more special! After indulging in this masterpiece, you may find yourself inspired to explore recipes like Pineapple Chicken and Rice or venture into the delightful world of Vegan Caramelized Onion for endless flavorful fun. Make Ahead Options These Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake components are ideal for meal prep, making your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, letting them cool completely, and then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The salted caramel sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before using. When you’re ready to finish, whip together the frosting, assemble the layers, and coat with ganache, ensuring a delightful flavor and texture that tastes just as fresh as if it were made the same day! Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best apples for my cake? Absolutely! For the most delightful flavor and texture, I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Look for apples that are firm, without any dark spots or bruises. Their crispness ensures a fresh bite in your cake, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very simple! After your dessert is enjoyed, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. The Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring you have delicious bites ready to savor later. Can I freeze the cake, and if so, how? You can absolutely freeze this cake! For optimal results, slice it into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours! What should I do if my cake turns out dense? If your cake ends up denser than you’d like, consider a few factors: make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better integration. Avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a tougher texture. Additionally, ensure your leavening agents (baking soda and baking powder) are fresh, as expired products can affect rising. Is this cake pet-friendly or allergy-safe? It’s important to note that this Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake contains common allergens such as peanuts and dairy, making it unsafe for those with allergies to these ingredients. Always inform others about the ingredients before serving. If you’re baking for anyone with dietary restrictions, consider alternatives like sun butter for a nut-free version. How can I enhance the flavor of my salted caramel? To really elevate your salted caramel sauce, consider adding a splash of bourbon for depth or a hint of sea salt to amplify the sweetness. When cooking the caramel, keep a close eye and use a candy thermometer to reach the perfect 210°F, which ensures a rich, smooth consistency. Enjoy those rich flavors! Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake Bliss Delight in this Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake, a fusion of chocolate, apple, and caramel flavors perfect for autumn celebrations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake2 cups all-purpose flour1.5 cups granulated sugar0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon baking powder0.5 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon cinnamon0.5 teaspoon allspice3 pieces eggs at room temperature0.5 cups canola oil or any neutral oil1 cup unsweetened applesauce2 teaspoons vanilla extract1 cup coffee or warm apple ciderFor the Caramel Sauce1 cup heavy cream1 cup sugar0.5 cups honey or corn syrup0.5 cups apple cider4 tablespoons salted butter1 tablespoon bourbon optionalto taste flaky salt for garnishFor the Frosting1 cup unsalted butter softened4 ounces cream cheese softened2 cups powdered sugar0.5 cups creamy peanut butter0.33 cups salted caramel2 teaspoons vanilla extract additional0.5 cups salted peanuts chopped for garnishFor the Ganache and Decoration8 ounces bittersweet chocolate chopped0.5 cups heavy cream3 pieces small apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp3 pieces wooden sticks for garnish Equipment Mixing BowlsElectric MixerSaucepan9-inch round cake pansParchment PaperCandy thermometerHeatproof bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3 eggs, ½ cup of canola oil, 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper.Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon allspice until fluffy.Mix and Pour: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, pouring in 1 cup of coffee or warm apple cider. Stir gently until blended and pour into prepared pans.Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans before removing.Make Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of honey, and ½ cup of apple cider. Stir until golden, add 1 cup heavy cream and 4 tablespoons salted butter, cook until it reaches 210°F (99°C).Prepare Frosting: Beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 4 ounces cream cheese, gradually sift in 2 cups powdered sugar, add ½ cup creamy peanut butter, a pinch of salt, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mix until fluffy.Assemble Cake: Level cooled cakes, spread peanut butter frosting between layers, cover the cake with remaining frosting.Coat with Ganache: Melt 8 ounces of chopped bittersweet chocolate and ½ cup heavy cream until smooth, pour over the frosted cake and let cool until set.Final Touch: Heat remaining caramel sauce until pourable, drizzle over the cake and garnish with dipped apple slices and wooden sticks. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 57gProtein: 6gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg NotesEnsure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
