Oh wow, let me tell you about this Apple Date Skillet Sponge with Butter Caramel! It’s like a warm hug in dessert form. Picture this: fluffy sponge cake filled with sweet, juicy apples and chewy dates, all topped off with a rich, buttery caramel that just melts in your mouth. Trust me, you’ll want to make this for any gathering or even just as a cozy afternoon treat. I remember the first time I made this for my friends—they couldn’t believe how simple it was! They devoured it in minutes, and I felt like a superstar chef. Seriously, this recipe is a game changer for any dessert lover!
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
- 1 cup brown sugar (for caramel)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel)
- Pinch of salt (for caramel)
How to Prepare Apple Date Skillet Sponge with Butter Caramel
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Skillet
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your trusty 10-inch oven-safe skillet (or a round cake pan if you don’t have one) and grease it generously with butter or non-stick spray. Trust me, you want to ensure it doesn’t stick!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and, if you’re feeling it, the ground cinnamon. Just make sure everything is nicely mixed so you get an even rise in your sponge!
Mix Wet Ingredients
Now, in a large bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and packed brown sugar. Mix it well until it’s a smooth, creamy texture. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until everything is just combined. You want it smooth, but don’t overdo it!
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Next, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until you see no more flour streaks. Then, fold in those delicious diced apples and chopped dates. They’ll add such a lovely sweetness!
Bake the Skillet Sponge
Pour the batter into your prepared skillet, spreading it evenly. Pop it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!
Prepare the Butter Caramel
While your sponge is baking, let’s whip up that buttery caramel! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s all smooth and bubbly. Gradually whisk in ¼ cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Yum!
Serve and Enjoy
Once your cake is done baking, let it cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a plate. Drizzle that warm butter caramel over the top, and if you’re feeling indulgent, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You’re in for a treat!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are just estimates. Each slice of this delicious Apple Date Skillet Sponge with Butter Caramel contains approximately 350 calories, with 25g of sugar and 15g of fat. It’s definitely a treat, so enjoy every bite while being mindful of your portion sizes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion.
- The combination of sweet apples and chewy dates creates a delightful flavor contrast.
- Topped with rich butter caramel, it’s absolutely indulgent!
- This recipe is great for sharing with family and friends—everyone loves it!
- Plus, it’s a cozy dessert that’ll warm your heart and home.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Apple Date Skillet Sponge turns out perfectly, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps with an even texture. If you want to enhance the flavor, feel free to add some chopped nuts on top before baking. And remember, if you accidentally overbake it, don’t fret! A scoop of ice cream on top will hide any dryness. Enjoy the process and have fun!
FAQ Section
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears or even mashed bananas could work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure you adjust the sweetness if the fruit is much sweeter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just check the blend for the right measurements!
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave for a quick treat!
Can I make the caramel ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the butter caramel in advance and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before drizzling on your cake.
What if my caramel is too thin?
If your caramel turns out too thin, just simmer it a little longer to help it thicken. A pinch of patience goes a long way!
Apple Date Skillet Sponge with Butter Caramel Delight
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious Apple Date Skillet Sponge topped with rich butter caramel, perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
- 1 cup brown sugar (for caramel)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel)
- Pinch of salt (for caramel)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch oven-safe skillet or a round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped dates.
- Pour the batter into the prepared skillet, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter for the caramel. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Drizzle the warm butter caramel over the top.
- Serve warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For added flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.
- For a more intense caramel flavor, let the caramel simmer a little longer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Apple Date Skillet Sponge, Butter Caramel, Dessert Recipe