Miso-Infused Apple Layer Cake with Caramel Drizzle

1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

Begin by greasing your 8.5- by 4.5-inch loaf pan with vegetable oil or cooking spray. Line it with parchment paper and lightly dust with flour. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step will ensure the cake comes out effortlessly after baking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder, ensuring your cake rises properly.

3. Prepare the Miso Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of white miso and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until smooth. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of whole milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is well combined. The miso adds a unique umami flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.

4. Beat Eggs and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat 3 large eggs and 2/3 cup of sugar together until the mixture turns pale and glossy, which should take about 60-90 seconds. This step incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake a light and fluffy texture.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer running on low speed, slowly add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, followed by the milk mixture. Continue to mix until everything is just combined, taking care not to overmix.

6. Incorporate the Apples

Using a large rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the 2.5 pounds of thinly sliced apples until they are evenly coated with the batter. The apples should be sliced very thinly to ensure they cook through and layer beautifully in the cake.

7. Assemble the Cake

Pour the apple-batter mixture into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Press down gently to ensure the apples are well-packed and the batter is distributed throughout.

8. Bake the Cake

Place the loaf pan on a rimmed baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 65-75 minutes. The top of the cake should be golden brown and slightly domed when done. This ensures even baking and a beautiful crust.

9. Cool the Cake

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully run a butter knife or offset spatula around the edges and transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This process takes about 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

10. Make the Caramel Sauce

In a 3-quart stainless steel saucier, combine 1/4 cup of water and 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a honey color, which takes about 4-5 minutes. Carefully add in 3/4 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly. Continue to cook until the caramel reaches an amber color, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of white miso until smooth. Simmer for an additional 3 minutes to blend the flavors.

11. Serve

Once the cake has cooled completely, cut it into slices using a serrated knife. Drizzle each slice generously with the miso caramel sauce and serve. The rich caramel sauce perfectly complements the tender, apple-filled cake, creating a dessert that's both unique and irresistible. Enjoy!