Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare an 8x8 dish with baking spray.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and sugars. Then add vanilla, cinnamon applesauce, dark rum, and then eggs. Make sure you add the eggs last to prevent them from getting warm from the melted butter.

Step 3

Then add the baking soda, kosher salt, cinnamon, and flour. Stir until just combined, and then gradually add diced apples and mix.

Step 4

Pour the cake batter into the baking dish and smooth out evenly. Bake for 35-38 minutes, or until done in the center. Remove to cool slightly.

Step 5

Meanwhile, make caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, melt butter and add brown sugar. Stir well and then add vanilla and heavy cream. Whisk until well mixed and slightly bubbly. Remove and add the sea salt. Pour into a glass jar (or other small dish).

Step 6

To serve, slice cake into 9 equal pieces. Serve warm with a spoonful of caramel sauce.