Old-Fashioned Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and fall afternoons spent at the orchard. With its warm spices and sweet, tender apples, this cake captures the essence of comfort baking. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this recipe is sure to please.
What Goes into This Apple Cake
To create this delectable dessert, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 g)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups chopped apples (about 3 medium apples)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Apple Cake Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chopped apples and nuts, if you’re using them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan or muffin tin, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes if you’re making a cake, or 18-20 minutes for muffins. Check for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
- Allow to cool before serving, which will make it easier to slice or remove from the muffin tin.
How to Serve This Delightful Dessert
To enjoy this Old-Fashioned Apple Cake, consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. You could also dust it with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. For a cozy afternoon treat, pair it with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it alongside a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness!
Expert Tips for Apple Cake
- For extra moisture and flavor, try using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji.
- If you like a bit of crunch, toast the nuts before folding them into the batter for enhanced flavor.
- You can also add a handful of raisins or chopped dried fruit for an additional texture and taste.
Apple Cake: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any type of apple?
A: Yes, however, firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Q: How can I store leftover cake?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Give this Old-Fashioned Apple Cake a try, and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen! It’s more than just a dessert— it’s a slice of nostalgia that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!