Apple Ginger Cake
A moist and flavorful apple ginger cake with tender slices of cooking apples, warm spices, and a tender crumb, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the sliced apples, 1 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat until the apples are tender.
- Pour the cooked apple mixture into a greased 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix 2 1/2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- In another bowl, beat together 1/2 cup Crisco and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
- Add 2/3 cup milk and lemon juice to the creamed mixture, blending well.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter over the apple filling in the prepared pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. To enhance the ginger flavor, freshly grated ginger can replace ground ginger. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also elevate the spice profile of the cake. Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Apple Ginger Cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for afternoon snacks. For a delightful contrast, serve alongside a refreshing Cucumber Yum-Yum Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it where it can last up to a week. To reheat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Ginger Cake contains roughly 333 calories, with 2g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% 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 other fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits such as pears or peaches, but keep in mind that different fruits may have varying moisture levels. Adjust the sugar accordingly if using sweeter fruits, and ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the edges as they may brown slightly before the center is fully baked. If the edges start to darken too much, you can cover them with foil.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and store it covered at room temperature. Before serving, you can warm it in the oven for a few minutes to refresh the flavors.
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).