### How to Make an Apple Pudding Cake with Self-Made Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Apple pudding cakes are a delightful fall treat that combines the richness of a cake with the sweetness of baked apples. This recipe not only provides step-by-step instructions but also tips on how you can make your own caramel sauce for topping, ensuring it stands out in terms of flavor and presentation.
#### Ingredients:
- **For the Cake:**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Zest of one lemon
- **For the Apples:**
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith works best)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg
- **For the Sauce:**
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 vanilla bean (optional)
- Pinch of salt
#### Equipment:
- Baking dish or 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Saucepan
### Instructions:
**Step 1: Preheat Your Oven**
- Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (180°C).
**Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter**
1. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Beat in the egg, followed by milk and lemon zest, ensuring everything is well mixed.
**Step 3: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients**
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
**Step 4: Prepare the Apples**
1. Core and slice the apples into thin rounds.
2. Toss with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
**Step 5: Assemble the Cake**
- Line the bottom of your baking dish with half the apple slices.
- Pour a third of the cake batter over the apples.
- Repeat layers with remaining apples and cake batter, ending with a layer of cake on top.
**Step 6: Bake the Cake**
- Place in preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to an hour. Check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean if fully cooked.
**Step 7: Prepare the Self-Made Caramel Sauce**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, vanilla bean (if using), and salt.
2. **Cook Until Caramelized:** Heat over medium heat without stirring until mixture turns amber in color.
3. **Remove from Heat:** Carefully pour over the warm cake once it's out of the oven.
**Step 8: Serve**
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
- Drizzle with the self-made caramel sauce and serve warm for best results.
### Tips:
- Ensure your apples are peeled, cored, and thinly sliced for even cooking.
- For a richer flavor in the cake, add a teaspoon of almond extract or orange zest along with the lemon zest.
- Store any leftover caramel sauce in an airtight container; it can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
By following these detailed steps, you'll create a delicious apple pudding cake that is both impressive and comforting. Enjoy your baking!