Jewish Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that many people cherish. It combines the sweet, tart flavors of apples with a moist, tender cake that makes it irresistible. This cake is a timeless classic, often enjoyed during holidays or family gatherings. Its warm aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, bringing everyone together and evoking a sense of nostalgia. Imagine serving a slice topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s truly a treat for all ages!
Gather Your Jewish Apple Cake Ingredients
To whip up this delicious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups (435 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (396 g) granulated sugar
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup orange juice
- 4 eggs (room temperature)
- 6 medium apples (peeled and sliced)
- 6 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tsp cinnamon
Step-by-Step Jewish Apple Cake Recipe
Making this delightful cake is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a tube pan using Crisco or Pam’s Baking Spray with flour. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Stir gently.
- Pour in the vegetable oil and orange juice. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix.
- Add the room temperature eggs to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon, mixing them well.
- Begin by spreading one third of the batter into the greased tube pan.
- Layer one third of the sliced apples over the batter, followed by one third of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the apples.
- Repeat this process two more times: add another third of the batter, then apples, and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, ending with the last third of batter, apples, and cinnamon-sugar on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 90 minutes. The baking time will depend on how juicy your apples are. Generally, 70 minutes works perfectly!
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool for 15 to 20 minutes before carefully removing the outer pan. Let it cool completely before taking it out of the tube section.
This cake stores well! Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How to Serve Jewish Apple Cake
Serving Jewish Apple Cake is part of the fun! Here are a few delightful ways to enjoy it:
- Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for brunch or afternoon gatherings.
- For a more festive touch, consider serving it with caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to make your Jewish Apple Cake even more special:
- Apple choices: Granny Smith apples are a great choice because they provide a nice tartness. You can also mix types of apples for a more complex flavor.
- Nuts: If you enjoy some crunch, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans in between the layers for added texture.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice, or even add a touch of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor.
Jewish Apple Cake FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Different apples can give your cake varying flavors. Mixing sweet and tart apples can create a delicious balance.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
You can check if your cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I freeze leftover cake?
Yes! You can freeze slices of cake. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They should keep well for up to three months.
There you have it! Jewish Apple Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of tradition and family gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the wonderful flavors it brings to your home. Happy baking!