Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire rack
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the applesauce, and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts (if using).
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove the sides of the pan and transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 360
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 340mg
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 30g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- If you don't have unsweetened applesauce, you can use sweetened applesauce and reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
- You can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
- If you don't have fresh apples, you can use canned or frozen apples.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle the top of the cake with cinnamon sugar before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to dice the apples into small pieces so they cook evenly in the cake.
- Don't overmix the batter, or the cake will be tough.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the cake, place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cake on a cake stand and dust with powdered sugar for a simple presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Pairings:
Serve the cake with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the cake with a side of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding an extra 1/4 cup of applesauce to the batter.
- If the cake is too moist, reduce the amount of applesauce in the recipe.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before preparing the cake.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Food History:
Apple pie cake is a classic dessert that combines the flavors of apple pie with the texture of cake. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century.
Flavor Profiles:
This apple pie cake is sweet and spicy, with a moist and tender crumb. The diced apples add a juicy burst of flavor, while the cinnamon and nutmeg give it a warm and comforting aroma.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this apple pie cake as a dessert after a hearty meal, or enjoy it as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A