Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the applesauce, and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
10. Transfer the cake to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 390
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar.
- Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup raisins or chopped dried apricots to the batter.
- Replace the applesauce with mashed bananas for a banana-walnut cake.
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before beating it with the sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter, or the cake will be tough.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing it.
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve the cake on a cake stand or a decorative plate.
- Garnish the cake with fresh apple slices or chopped walnuts.
Garnishes:
- Fresh apple slices
- Chopped walnuts
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
Pairings:
- Hot tea or coffee
- Apple cider
- Vanilla ice cream
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding more applesauce or reducing the baking time.
- If the cake is too moist, try reducing the amount of applesauce or increasing the baking time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the cake.
- Use fresh ingredients and check for expiration dates.
- Store the cake properly to avoid spoilage.
Food history:
- Applesauce cake is a traditional American dessert that dates back to the early 1900s.
- The cake became popular during World War II when sugar and butter were rationed, and applesauce was used as a substitute.
Flavor profiles:
- The cake has a moist and tender texture with a subtle apple flavor and a nutty crunch from the walnuts.
- The cinnamon and nutmeg add warm and spicy notes to the cake.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cake as a dessert or a sweet snack.
- The cake can also be served for breakfast or brunch 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
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Moist, Cinnamon, Cinnamon-Spiced