### Cranberry Apple Cake with Salted Caramel Glaze: A Delicious Holiday Treat
#### Introduction:
Cranberry Apple Cake is a delightful holiday treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples. The addition of a salted caramel glaze enhances its flavor, making it a perfect dessert for any special occasion. Follow these detailed steps to create this delicious cake.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups sliced apples (peeled and cored)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Salted caramel glaze (recipe provided below)
#### Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Preparing the Cake Batter:
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients**: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. **Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating on low speed just until combined.
6. **Fold in Fruit and Nuts**: Gently fold in the sliced apples, cranberries, and chopped walnuts.
#### Baking the Cake:
1. **Transfer Batter**: Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it into a thin layer (about 1 inch thick).
2. **Bake**: Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
3. **Cool Completely**: Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack before glazing.
#### Making Salted Caramel Glaze:
1. **Prepare Ingredients**: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil without stirring.
2. **Cook Sugar Syrup**: Boil the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a deep amber color (about 30-40 minutes).
3. **Cool Down**: Remove from heat and carefully stir in 1/4 cup unsalted butter, followed by 2 tablespoons heavy cream to prevent hardening.
4. **Add Salt**: Stir in 1 teaspoon sea salt for the caramel glaze.
#### Applying the Glaze:
1. **Apply Glaze**: Once the cake has cooled completely, use a pastry brush to evenly coat the top with the salted caramel glaze.
2. **Serve**: Allow the glaze to set before serving. This cake is best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal texture.
#### Tips and Variations:
- For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze.
- Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for a varied texture.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
### Conclusion:
This Cranberry Apple Cake with Salted Caramel Glaze is not only visually appealing but also packed with rich, festive flavors. Perfect for any holiday gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite. Enjoy crafting this delicious treat!
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