Grandma’s Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings back warm memories of cozy family gatherings and delightful afternoons spent in the kitchen. This classic recipe boasts a moist and tender crumb, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of golden apples and the crunch of pine nuts. It’s the kind of cake that invites you to sit down with a cup of tea, take a bite, and reminisce about cherished times.
Gather Your Grandma’s Apple Cake Ingredients
To make this delicious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 150 g (1 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour
- 125 g (⅝ cup) sugar
- 100 g (½ cup) melted butter, cooled
- 4 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 medium eggs
- 8 g (2 teaspoons) baking powder
- 1 Golden apple (about 200 g), peeled and cubed
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 Golden apples (about 400 g), peeled and sliced
- 50 g (⅓ cup) raisins
- 15 g (2 tablespoons) pine nuts
- 40 g (3 tablespoons) melted butter
- 3 tablespoons sugar for topping
How to Make Grandma’s Apple Cake
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In a small saucepan, melt 100 g of butter and let it cool. Soak the raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C (350 degrees F).
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In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs with 125 g of sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Add the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, cooled melted butter, and milk to the egg mixture. Mix on low speed until you achieve a smooth batter.
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Peel, core, and cube 1 Golden apple. Gently fold the apple cubes into the batter with a spatula until well combined.
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Grease and flour a 24 cm (9-inch) springform pan. Pour the batter into the pan and level the top with a spatula.
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Melt the remaining 40 g of butter. Peel and slice the 2 Golden apples and arrange them on top of the batter. Sprinkle on the plumped raisins and pine nuts.
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Generously sprinkle granulated sugar over the surface and drizzle the melted butter on top for added richness.
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Bake in the oven on the lowest rack for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve & Enjoy Grandma’s Apple Cake
This cake is perfect for sharing! Once cooled, slice it into generous pieces and serve it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a special touch, you might also sprinkle a little cinnamon on top before serving to enhance those warm apple flavors.
Expert Tips for Grandma’s Apple Cake
- Extra Flavor: Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for an additional flavor kick.
- Make it Nut-Free: If you or your guests are allergic to nuts, simply omit the pine nuts. The cake will still be delicious!
- Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Grandma’s Apple Cake FAQs
1. Can I use other types of apples?
While Golden apples give a sweet flavor, you can substitute them with your favorite variety, such as Granny Smith or Fuji apples.
2. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
3. What can I serve with this cake?
Grandma’s Apple Cake is delightful on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or ice cream, making it a lovely dessert for any gathering.
Give this Grandma’s Apple Cake a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors and memories it brings. Happy baking!