Brandy Apple Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake infused with brandy, featuring chopped apples, walnuts, and cherries; perfect for dessert or teatime gatherings with a comforting, fruity taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the peeled and chopped apples, sugar, and brandy in a bowl and let stand for 1 hour.
- After the mixture has stood, add the eggs, oil, and vanilla, mixing by hand.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the apple mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts and drained maraschino cherries.
- Pour the batter into greased and floured loaf pans or a large tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before removing from pans. Can be wrapped and frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider substituting half of the apples with pears or using a different flavored brandy. To enhance sweetness, you can reduce the sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking. Ensure that the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts before adding them.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Brandy Apple Cake warm or at room temperature, optionally drizzled with a caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Consider serving it alongside Mary'S Orange Blossom Muffins for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brandy Apple Cake contains roughly 1589 calories, with 12g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1566mg per serving (68% 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 alcohol instead of brandy?
Yes, you can substitute brandy with other fruit-flavored liqueurs like apricot or peach schnapps for a different flavor profile. Additionally, if you'd prefer a non-alcoholic option, you might use apple juice or cider, though it may alter the cake's texture slightly.
What kind of apples work best for this cake?
Using a mix of tart and sweet apples can provide a well-rounded flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness are excellent choices. Avoid using overly soft apples, as they may break down too much during baking.
How can I tell 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. If it comes out with wet batter, the cake needs more time. Also, the edges should begin to pull away from the sides of the pan, indicating it's set.
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).