Apple Sheet Cake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - All-purpose flour: 2 cups, for structure.
02 - Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp, for warm spice.
03 - Baking soda: 1/2 tsp, for leavening.
04 - Salt: 1/4 tsp, to balance flavors.
05 - Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness.
06 - Light brown sugar: 1 cup, packed, for a molasses flavor.
07 - Unsalted butter: 2 sticks (melted), for richness.
08 - Water: 1 cup, for moisture.
09 - Buttermilk: 1/2 cup, for a tender crumb.
10 - Eggs: 2 large, for binding.
11 - Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor.
12 - Granny Smith apples: 2 cups, peeled and chopped (about 2 medium apples), for tartness and texture.
13 - Unsalted butter: 1 stick, melted for smoothness.
14 - Milk: 1/4 cup, to adjust consistency.
15 - Powdered sugar: 3 cups, sifted, for a smooth glaze.
16 - Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp, for flavor.
17 - Salted caramel sauce: 1/4 cup, for a rich, gooey topping.

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan or a 16.75x12-inch pan.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
03 - In a saucepan, heat butter and water over medium-high heat until the butter melts. Bring to a boil, then pour into the dry ingredients and mix well.
04 - Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then stir in buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
05 - Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 17-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes.
06 - To make the glaze, microwave butter and milk in a heatproof bowl until melted. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salted caramel sauce until smooth. Adjust the thickness with extra powdered sugar or milk if needed.
07 - Pour the glaze evenly over the slightly warm cake. Let it set for about 15 minutes before slicing.
08 - Slice the cake into squares and serve.

# Notes:

01 - Granny Smith apples provide a tart balance to the sweetness of the cake and glaze.
02 - The salted caramel glaze can be adjusted for thickness to your preference.
03 - This cake is ideal for fall gatherings, thanks to its spiced apple flavors and rich glaze.