Apple Walnut Spice Cake
A moist and flavorful apple walnut spice cake featuring tender apples and warm spices, perfect for cozy gatherings or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
- Line the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan with the apple slices.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top of the apples.
- Prepare the spice cake mix according to package directions.
- Pour the prepared cake batter over the apple-walnut mixture in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
- Cover and set aside for 24 hours.
- Serve the moist apple walnut spice cake.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds can be substituted. Ensure the spice cake mix is well blended to avoid lumps. For a vegan variation, use a plant-based cake mix and applesauce as an egg substitute. This cake can also be served warm with a scoop of ice cream, pairing beautifully with Baked Pears A-La-Mode.
Serving Suggestions
This moist cake is delightful on its own or topped with whipped cream. Serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee for a cozy treat. It also pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, garnish the cake with extra chopped walnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover apple walnut spice cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Walnut Spice Cake contains roughly 364 calories, with 2g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 40g fat.
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 other apple varieties, but for the best flavor, stick to tart options like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this apple walnut spice cake gluten-free, substitute the spice cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients, such as walnuts, are also certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.
What can I do if the cake is too dry?
If the cake turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking. To keep it moist, serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. Adding a layer of applesauce between the apples and cake batter in the pan can also help retain moisture.
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).