1. Prep the Apples
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Toss diced apples with 1 tbsp Sugar and sauté until lightly caramelized to boost flavor.
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Grate the remaining apples, including the Juices this keeps the cake ultra-moist.
2. Make the Batter
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Whisk together the dry ingredients (flour through cloves).
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Beat oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
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Fold in the dry ingredients, then gently mix in the apples and pecans.
(The batter will be thick.)
3. Bake to Golden Glory
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Pour batter into a greased pan.
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Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 50–60 minutes.
(Lower temperature prevents doming.) -
Cool for 15 minutes before glazing.
4. Caramel Magic
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Melt butter and brown sugar together; simmer for 2 minutes.
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Stir in cream, vanilla, and sea salt.
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Pour glaze over the warm cake and enjoy that satisfying sizzle.
Pro Chef Secrets
Apple varieties: Use 2 Granny Smith and 2 Honeycrisp for the perfect sweet-tart balance
Baking hack: Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any glaze overflow
Make-ahead tip: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld
