Name: Apple-Spice Layer Cake with Caramel Swirl Icing
Yield: 12 to 14 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature; 3 cups sugar; 2 tablespoons light molasses; 6 large eggs; 3 cups cake flour; 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 2 teaspoons ground allspice; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 cup sour cream; 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and shredded (about 1 1/2 cups); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (optional); One 14-ounce bag caramels; 4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup (8 ounces) mascarpone (Italian cream cheese, available at most grocery stores); 2 cups pecan pieces, toasted (optional)

Image may contain Plant Confectionery Food Sweets Birthday Cake Dessert Cake and Vegetable

Apple-Spice Layer Cake with Caramel Swirl IcingCookbook cover image courtesy of Random House

Here's a cake that showcases the flavors and smells of Christmas. This three-layer extravaganza has a touch of molasses and shredded apple to keep it moist. As the cake bakes, it fills the house with a fragrance that beats the most expensive holiday-scented candle. Many amateur cooks are intimidated by just thinking about making a cake that doesn't come from a box. Yes, it takes extra time, but it isn't hard. Just follow the steps outlined below. I say, if you want to make an impression, bring on a tall, showy homemade cake. Your friends will be talking about it long after the party is over.

Recipe notes

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Super Seedy Power Cookies

As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.