Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and thoroughly grease a 9-inch springform pan.

Step 2

In a small bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla.

Step 4

Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined, then fold in apples and nuts if using.

Step 5

Transfer batter to the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes as you prepare the caramel.

Step 6

Caramel: when cake has been baking for 30 minutes, start the caramel. Add brown sugar, half & half, and butter to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir often until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, no need to bring to a full boil.

Step 7

Remove cake from oven and pour caramel over the top. Return cake to oven for additional 10-15 minutes or until caramel is cracking and cake is cooked through the center.

Step 8

Allow cake to cool at least 15 minutes before slicing.