Granny Smiths Golden Delight apple cake with caramel sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the springform pan. Toss diced apples with lemon juice.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using).
7. Pour batter into prepared springform pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before releasing it from the springform pan and transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves and turns a golden amber color.
10. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream and butter. Be careful as it may bubble vigorously.
11. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in salt and vanilla extract.
12. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the cooled apple cake. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.