Step 1: Prepare Oven & Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8‑inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a 2‑inch overhang on two sides. This makes removal easier later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the all‑purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Butter, Sugar & Vanilla

In a separate large bowl, add the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium‑high speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated before moving on.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients and Yogurt

Add half of the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix on low speed just until it begins to combine.

Pour in the yogurt and blend at low speed until just mixed.

Add the remaining flour mixture and fold gently with a silicone spatula until the batter is smooth and barely combined (a few streaks are okay).

Step 6: Add Apples

Place the chopped apples in a medium bowl and sprinkle with ground cinnamon, tossing to coat evenly.

Add 2 cups of the apple mixture into the batter and fold gently until the apples are distributed throughout.

Step 7: Spread Batter

Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Scatter the remaining 1 cup of apples evenly over the top of the batter.

Step 8: Add Caramel & Topping

Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of salted caramel sauce over the apples.

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this cinnamon‑sugar mixture evenly over the apples and caramel.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Cool and Drizzle

Remove the cake from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let it cool for at least 1 hour.

Once cooled, drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the top before serving for the most dramatic flavor and presentation.