Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake is the perfect dessert to bring warmth and comfort to any gathering. With a delightful blend of spices, sweet apples, and crunchy walnuts, this cake is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a treat you can feel good about. Whether served at a cozy family dinner or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.
What You’ll Need for Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake
To make this tasty cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (120 g)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (125 g)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (60 ml)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (80 ml)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 3 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (60 g)
How to Make Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake
Making this delightful cake is easy and requires just a few simple steps. Follow along for a step-by-step guide:
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Bring the eggs to room temperature for the best mixing results.
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Peel and core the apples, then chop them into 1/4-inch cubes. To keep them fresh, toss the pieces with a splash of lemon juice.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
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In another large bowl, combine the applesauce and melted coconut oil. Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs one at a time until everything is well mixed.
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Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the cake’s texture!
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Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
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Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to Serve Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake
Once your Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake has cooled, it’s time to serve! Here are a few ideas to make your presentation special:
- Serve slices of the cake warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with extra maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast.
- Enjoy the cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon snack or dessert.
Expert Tips for Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake
- Use Fresh Apples: The fresher your apples, the more flavorful your cake will be. Try using a mix of sweet and tart apples for added depth in flavor.
- Add Variations: Feel free to experiment with nuts or spices! Chopped pecans can replace walnuts, or you can add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: This cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or you can refrigerate it to extend its shelf life.
Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the whole wheat and all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! Honey or agave syrup would work well in place of maple syrup.
How can I make this cake more moist?
To enhance moisture, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of applesauce, or even a little yogurt or milk if you’d like a creamier texture.
Give this Wholesome Spiced Apple Walnut Cake a try! It’s not only a delightful treat but also a true comfort food that brings a cozy feeling to any occasion. Happy baking!