Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 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
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or cooking spray.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
7. Fold in the chopped apples and walnuts.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 220mg
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 29g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of apple you prefer or have on hand.
- Pecans or almonds can be substituted for the walnuts.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for extra sweetness.
- Top the cake with a cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to chop the apples into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the cake.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, line the bottom with parchment paper.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the cake, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Top the cake with a few slices of fresh apple or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
Pairings:
- Serve the cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time.
- If the cake sinks in the middle, it may not have baked long enough or the oven temperature may be too low.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to wash and dry the apples thoroughly before peeling and chopping them.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- St Brigid's Day is celebrated on February 1st in Ireland and is associated with the beginning of spring.
- Apple cake is a traditional Irish dessert that is often served on St Brigid's Day.
Flavor profiles:
- This apple cake is sweet and slightly spicy, with a nutty crunch from the walnuts.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Region: Irish