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Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe

Avatar photoByStacy
Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 57 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both nostalgic and just a little bit fancy, you’re going to love this Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe. It’s like a hug from the inside with tender spiced apples, a silky gooey cream cheese layer, and the richness of brown butter cake – all drizzled with luscious salted caramel. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be your go-to fall dessert (or any time you want to impress friends without fuss). Let me walk you through the why, the how, and my personal tips to nail it perfectly.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultimate Comfort Dessert: The gooey cream cheese layer combined with spiced apples makes every bite feel cozy and indulgent.
  • Rich Brown Butter Flavor: Brown butter adds a nutty, deep flavor that takes this cake from ordinary to extraordinary.
  • Balanced Sweet and Salty: The salted caramel sauce perfectly counters the sweetness with a touch of sea salt, giving you that addictive flavor combo.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the components and assemble ahead, perfect for entertaining or easy weeknight treats.
A slice of pie on a white plate with three visible layers: a light brown crust on top, a smooth pale cream layer in the middle, and a thicker brown crumbly base at the bottom. The pie is covered with a shiny, bright caramel sauce that drips down the sides with small bits sprinkled on top. The background is a white marbled surface with warm wooden tones and red apples slightly blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel, apple gooey butter cake, salted caramel dessert, fall apple cake, easy gooey butter cake recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe work harmoniously—the warm spices bring out the best in fresh apples and brown butter, while cream cheese adds that signature gooey texture. When shopping, pick crisp apples that hold their shape well, and be sure to use real cream cheese for that velvety layer.

Flat lay of a small mound of unsalted butter, two peeled and diced fresh apples, a small white bowl with ground cinnamon, a tiny white bowl with ground nutmeg, a tiny white bowl with ground allspice, a small pile of brown sugar, an unwrapped block of cream cheese, two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white bowl of powdered sugar, a small heap of all-purpose flour, a small white bowl of granulated white sugar, a small white bowl of vanilla extract, a small white bowl of buttermilk, a small white bowl of heavy cream, a small pile of sea salt flakes, all arranged symmetrically in simple white ceramic bowls and plates, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel, apple gooey butter cake, salted caramel dessert, fall apple cake, easy gooey butter cake recipe
  • Unsalted Butter: Essential for browning, which builds that fabulous nutty flavor without extra salt throwing off the balance.
  • Apples: I recommend tart and firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which soften but don’t turn mushy when cooked.
  • Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg & Allspice: The perfect combo to stir into the apples and cake—freshly ground if you can, for the best aroma.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth to the apple filling; dark brown sugar will intensify that molasses flavor.
  • Cream Cheese: Use at room temperature for smooth blending in the gooey layer.
  • Eggs: Also at room temp to help everything mix evenly and keep the texture perfect.
  • Powdered Sugar: For that silky, sweet cream cheese layer without the grit of granulated sugar.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Spoon it into your measuring cup for accuracy; it keeps the cake tender.
  • Baking Powder & Baking Soda: To give your cake a nice, light rise.
  • Salt: Just a pinch to balance flavors.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps brown the cake beautifully.
  • Vanilla Extract: A must for rich flavor depth.
  • Buttermilk: Adds tenderness and a subtle tang, enhancing the spice notes.
  • Heavy Cream, Sea Salt, and Sugar for Caramel: Use good-quality cream and flaky sea salt for that perfect sauce consistency and flavor.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love playing around with this Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe depending on the season or guests. It’s easy to twist it in a few ways to suit your own taste or dietary preferences.

  • Swap the Apples: In warmer months, try fresh peaches or pears instead of apples for a seasonal flair—I’m telling you, peaches bring out a fresh, juicy sweetness that’s a bit unexpected but delightful.
  • Nut Allergies: I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts to the spiced apples for crunch if I know no nut allergies are around, it adds a lovely texture contrast.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Using vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter in the brown butter and caramel parts works surprisingly well. You just might want to watch the caramel carefully since plant-based creams can have different fat contents.
  • Less Sweet Option: Reduce the sugar in the caramel sauce slightly or skip the powdered sugar topping, especially if you prefer your desserts more balanced and less sugary.

How to Make Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe

Step 1: Make That Brown Butter Magic

Start by melting your butter over medium heat—you want it to foam and brown just right, which takes about 5-6 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells nutty and turns a lovely amber. Don’t rush this part! I discovered that if you walk away too long, it can burn quickly, so stay close. Transfer it to a bowl and chill until it’s firm but soft enough to cream. This step adds an amazing depth to the cake that’s totally worth the extra wait.

Step 2: Cook Your Spiced Apples Just Right

Toss your diced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and brown sugar, then gently cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally so the apples soften without turning to mush. I usually wait till the juices thicken slightly—about 10 minutes—and let it cool while I prep the rest. This little simmer creates a fragrance in the kitchen that makes you want to dive right in.

Step 3: Whip Up the Gooey Cream Cheese Layer

Cream together the cream cheese, egg, and egg yolk until super smooth. Then, gently mix in the powdered sugar in two batches — don’t overmix here! I learned that patience yields the perfect silky texture, so take your time blending this luscious layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Brown Butter Spice Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prep a 9-inch springform pan with greasing and parchment. Whisk together your dry ingredients—the cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and all that good stuff—then, once your brown butter is fluffy, beat it with sugar until light and airy. Add eggs and vanilla, then alternate folding in the dry ingredients and buttermilk gently. I find using an offset spatula helps keep the batter smooth and prevents lumps.

Step 5: Layer and Bake Your Cake

Pour half the batter into the pan, spread evenly, and sprinkle your spiced apples over it. Then pour the rest of the batter on top, smoothing carefully so apples stay in place. Finally, spread the cream cheese layer evenly on top (try not to mix them together). Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes; the center should still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan—this means it’s perfectly gooey inside. Cooling it in the pan is key before refrigerating; this sets everything up beautifully.

Step 6: Whip Up That Irresistible Salted Caramel Sauce

This part feels fancy but is totally manageable. Melt your sugar slowly over medium-low heat—this takes patience, like 20 minutes—but it’s worth every second. Add butter, stir in cream, and don’t worry if it separates at first; stirring vigorously on low heat brings it back together. Finish with sea salt and vanilla, then let cool completely before drizzling. I like to make this while the cake chills so everything is ready at once.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Once chilled, loosen the edges, carefully remove the springform, and place the cake on a serving plate. Pour the cooled caramel sauce over the top and spread it evenly. My family goes crazy for that salty-sweet top layer—it’s the ultimate finishing touch! If you make the cake a day ahead, take it out an hour before serving so it’s soft and the flavors shine.

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Pro Tips for Making Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe

  • Watch the Brown Butter Closely: It can go from perfectly browned to burnt within seconds, so keep stirring and use medium heat.
  • Don’t Overmix the Cream Cheese Layer: Overmixing can cause it to crack or separate—stop once it’s smooth and combined.
  • Use an Offset Spatula for Layering: It helps spread batter and cream cheese smoothly without disturbing the apples.
  • Cool Completely Before Adding Caramel: Warm cake can melt the caramel, making it runny instead of beautifully glossy.

How to Serve Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe

A slice of pie with three clear layers sits on a white scalloped plate. The bottom layer is a dense, nutty crust with a rough texture. The middle layer is creamy and light tan in color, smooth and firm. The top layer is a shiny amber caramel glaze with a few small pieces of nuts sprinkled on top. Around the plate are cinnamon sticks, star anise, and red apples in a round basket, all set on a wooden surface. The background shows the rest of the pie with more slices cut out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel, apple gooey butter cake, salted caramel dessert, fall apple cake, easy gooey butter cake recipe

Garnishes

I typically keep it simple with a light sprinkle of sea salt and a few thin apple slices on top for color. Sometimes, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside brings out the decadence even more—I love that contrast of hot cake and cold cream.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee. For an extra special brunch or dessert table, I serve it alongside a fresh green apple salad with lemon and mint to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays, I sometimes make mini versions in a muffin tin for cute individual servings. Another festive idea is to drizzle caramel on each plate and place a slice on top with a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a pretty, rustic look. It’s always a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 4 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temp before serving so that gooey texture shines through.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this cake successfully by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then let sit at room temp for an hour before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop a slice in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm it in a low oven (300°F) for 10 minutes. That revives the softness and gooey texture without drying it out. Avoid overheating or it loses that magic melt-in-your-mouth quality!

FAQs

  1. Can I use different types of apples for this Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe?

    Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up best when cooked, you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Gala. Just keep in mind that softer apples may break down more during cooking, slightly altering the texture.

  2. How do I store leftover Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, let the cake come to room temperature for the best gooey texture. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months wrapped tightly.

  3. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

    Yes! Substitute vegan cream cheese, plant-based butter, and non-dairy cream for the salted caramel. Just keep an eye on the caramel while cooking, as dairy-free creams sometimes behave differently with sugar.

  4. Can I prepare the cake ahead of time?

    Definitely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and refrigerate it. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about an hour, then drizzle on the salted caramel sauce for the freshest presentation.

  5. What if I don’t have a springform pan?

    While a springform pan makes it easier to remove the cake without damage, you can use a regular 9-inch round cake pan lined with parchment paper and greased well. Just be extra careful when unmolding, or consider serving it straight from the pan.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a special treat but is totally achievable for home bakers. I love how the flavors come together—warm spice, velvety cream cheese, gooey cake, and silky caramel all harmonizing beautifully. It’s perfect for impressing friends or indulging yourself on a crisp afternoon. I can’t wait for you to try this and hear how much your family raves about it. Happy baking, friend!

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Apple Gooey Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 57 reviews
  • Author: Stacy
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 21 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

This Apple Gooey Butter Cake combines the warm flavors of spiced apples and brown butter spice cake with a luscious cream cheese layer, all topped with a rich homemade salted caramel sauce. With a tender crumb and gooey texture, it’s a perfect indulgent dessert for fall or any cozy occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Brown Butter

  • 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter

Spiced Apples

  • 2 cups (268 g) apples, peeled and diced into ½ inch pieces (about 2 apples)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 tsp ground allspice
  • 2 tbsp (28 g) brown sugar

Gooey Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 1 egg, at room temperature
  • 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 2 1/2 cups (325 g) powdered sugar

Brown Butter Spice Cake

  • 1 cup + 2 tbsp (141 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 tsp ground allspice
  • 3/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/8 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Brown butter from above
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated white sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
  • 1 egg, at room temperature
  • 1 egg yolk, at room temperature

Salted Caramel Sauce

  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
  • 5 tbsp (70 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, at room temperature
  • 1/4 – 1/2 tsp sea salt, depending on preference
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Make the Brown Butter: Add the butter to a pot and heat over medium heat until melted and simmering. Continue simmering for 5-6 minutes until the butter foams, emits a nutty aroma, and browns. Remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl. Refrigerate until solid but malleable, like softened butter.
  2. Cook the Spiced Apples: In a medium pan, combine diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until juices thicken and apples soften. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Prepare the Gooey Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, egg, and egg yolk on medium-high speed until smooth (1-2 minutes). Sift half the powdered sugar into the bowl and mix on low to medium speed until combined. Add remaining powdered sugar and mix just until fully incorporated. Set aside.
  4. Prepare the Brown Butter Spice Cake Dry Ingredients: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  5. Mix the Brown Butter Cake Batter: Whip the cooled brown butter on high speed until pale and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Add granulated sugar and continue whipping until light and fluffy, another 1-2 minutes. Add egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract and beat on medium-high speed until smooth and pale. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
  6. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Add the flour mixture and buttermilk alternately to the wet ingredients on low speed until combined and batter is smooth.
  7. Assemble the Cake: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and smooth with an offset spatula. Sprinkle the spiced apples evenly over the batter. Pour remaining batter over the apples and smooth it out. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
  8. Bake the Cake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the center has a shiny, slightly jiggly appearance and edges turn light golden brown.
  9. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 45 minutes, then refrigerate for 2 hours to set.
  10. Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt granulated sugar. It will crystallize initially, then fully melt and turn golden over about 20 minutes. Reduce heat to low once mostly melted to prevent burning.
  11. Add Butter to Caramel: Stir in butter immediately and mix quickly until fully combined.
  12. Add Heavy Cream: Pour in heavy cream and stir quickly to combine. If separated, increase heat slightly and stir vigorously until smooth.
  13. Finish Caramel Sauce: Stir in sea salt and vanilla extract. Simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and cool completely before use.
  14. Serve the Cake: When the cake is chilled, loosen edges with a knife, remove from springform pan, and transfer to a serving plate. Pour cooled caramel sauce over the top and spread evenly. Serve best at room temperature; if chilled overnight, allow to sit out for about an hour before serving.

Notes

  • The brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the cake’s depth.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balanced sweetness and texture.
  • Make sure all room temperature ingredients are properly softened for smooth mixing.
  • Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to keep the gooey texture.
  • Salted caramel sauce can be prepared ahead and stored refrigerated for up to a week, gently reheated before serving.
  • Let the cake stand at room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of cake)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 42 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
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Hi, I’m Stacy Corbo! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

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