Description

This Apple Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for fall or any special occasion. Made with a spice cake mix combined with apple pie filling for natural sweetness and warm spices, then topped with a rich and creamy caramel frosting, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Spice Cake

1 package 2-layer-size spice cake mix
1 (21-ounce) can Lucky Leaf apple pie filling or Lucky Leaf caramel apple pie filling
3 large eggs

Caramel Frosting

2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup caramel sauce or dulce de leche
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk or cream, or milk of choice

Instructions

Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly and set it aside to be ready for the batter.
Mix the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, the 21-ounce can of apple pie filling, and 3 large eggs. Stir together gently until just combined, making sure not to overmix in order to keep the cake tender.
Bake the cake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is cooked through.
Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling fully is essential before applying the frosting to prevent melting.
Make the caramel frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with a mixer until it is soft and fluffy. Add in the ½ cup of caramel sauce or dulce de leche, vanilla extract, and salt, beating well to combine.
Incorporate powdered sugar: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar to the butter mixture, starting on low mixer speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Continue adding and mixing until smooth and creamy.
Adjust frosting consistency: If the frosting is too thick, beat in the milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the desired spreading consistency is reached. Alternatively, add more powdered sugar if it becomes too thin.
Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the caramel frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or knife.

Notes

Use either regular apple pie filling or caramel apple pie filling for a caramel-enhanced apple flavor in the cake.
Make sure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting and dripping.
The frosting consistency can be customized by adjusting the amount of milk/cream or powdered sugar.
This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: apple spice cake, caramel frosting, apple pie filling, autumn desserts, easy cake recipe, spice cake