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)

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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.

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