Arkansas Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake with warm cinnamon and a tender crumb, perfect for fall gatherings or comforting desserts with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together sugar and margarine until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Stir in buttermilk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, soda, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing well.
- Fold in diced apples.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 13 x 9 x 2-inch cake pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist Arkansas Cake, ensure your apples are fresh and diced evenly. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor, or use a dairy-free alternative to cater to dietary needs. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup without compromising texture. For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts or raisins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Arkansas Cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. It pairs beautifully with Chiffon Salad for a refreshing contrast. Enjoy it as a sweet treat with coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Arkansas Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arkansas Cake contains roughly 294 calories, with 6g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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?
Absolutely! While any apple variety works, tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice balance to the sweetness of the cake. You can also blend different types of apples for more complex flavors.
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure that your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I freeze Arkansas Cake?
Yes, you can freeze Arkansas Cake! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
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).