Adams County Apple Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake with cinnamon and orange notes, perfect for autumn gatherings or dessert tables, appealing to those who enjoy warm, fruity baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, 2 cups of sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, orange juice, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat until thoroughly combined.
- In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with cinnamon and the remaining 5 tablespoons of sugar.
- Spread one-third of the batter in a greased 10-inch tube pan.
- Layer half of the apple mixture over the batter.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining batter and apples.
- Spoon the remaining batter over the top of the assembled layers.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 20 minutes before removing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, add a teaspoon of nutmeg to the apple mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half the sugar with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure the apples are firm and tart for the best texture and taste. This cake can be made a day in advance, as the flavors develop beautifully over time, similar to how they do in Old Fashion Raisin Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This apple cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat. Consider pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For a twist, serve alongside a Peanut Butter Smoothie for a unique combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Adams County Apple Cake contains roughly 372 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 747mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of baking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Each type will impart its unique flavor and sweetness, so feel free to experiment. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape during baking.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to also check that your baking powder is gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still yield a delicious cake.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready. If there's wet batter on the toothpick, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).