Apple Sweet Treat (Print Version)

This gooey caramel apple cake is perfectly soft, warm, and packed with cozy spices. Great for fall vibes!

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour, gives it structure.
02 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon, adds a cozy flavor.
03 - 1/2 tsp baking soda, helps it rise.
04 - 1/4 tsp salt, balances the sweetness.
05 - 1 cup white sugar, brings sweetness.
06 - 1 tightly packed cup of light brown sugar, for a hint of molasses.
07 - 2 sticks of melted unsalted butter, for a rich texture.
08 - 1 cup water, for added moisture.
09 - 1/2 cup buttermilk, makes it soft and tender.
10 - 2 large eggs, work as a binder.
11 - 1 tsp vanilla extract, gives it extra flavor.
12 - 2 cups of chopped Granny Smith apples (around 2 medium-sized), for tartness and texture.
13 - 1 stick unsalted butter, melted to keep it smooth.
14 - 1/4 cup milk, to tweak consistency.
15 - 3 sifted cups of powdered sugar, for a silky glaze.
16 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, enhances the glaze's taste.
17 - 1/4 cup of salted caramel sauce, adds a gooey finish.

# Directions:

01 - Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 16.75x12-inch pan or a jelly roll pan.
02 - Grab a big mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, white sugar, and brown sugar.
03 - On the stove, heat up butter and water in a pot over medium-high heat. Once the butter's melted, let it boil briefly. Pour it into the dry mix and stir until combined.
04 - Cool the mixture slightly, then add in the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Fold in the apples gently at the end.
05 - Spread the batter in your greased pan. Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the middle comes out clean. Cool on a rack for about 15-20 minutes while still in the pan.
06 - Melt the butter and milk together in the microwave using a heat-safe bowl. Slowly whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and the caramel sauce until smooth. Play with the thickness by adding extra powdered sugar or milk if needed.
07 - Drizzle the glaze all over the warm cake, spreading it evenly. Wait around 15 minutes for it to set before cutting.
08 - Cut the cake into squares and plate it up to enjoy.

# Notes:

01 - Granny Smith apples bring tartness that balances the sweet elements of this dessert.
02 - You can fine-tune the caramel glaze's texture by adjusting its thickness.
03 - This dish is perfect for autumn parties, with its baked apple flavor and rich caramel topping.