Chopped Apple Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake infused with warm spices and studded with raisins and optional walnuts, perfect for cozy afternoons or gatherings. Its tender crumb and fruity sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser, suitable for dessert or teatime indulgence, offering a delightful combination of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and fresh apples.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together flour, soda, salt, and spices.
- Blend shortening and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs; beat well.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and cold coffee to the mixture.
- Fold in chopped apples and raisins.
- Add nuts if desired.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1 1/4 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before icing if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider using 3 to 4 eggs instead of just 2. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a good substitute for a richer flavor. Adjust spices according to your preference; for example, if you love cinnamon, feel free to increase it. You can also add walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, which pairs beautifully with Etta'S Pecan Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. It also makes a great breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee, reminiscent of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chopped Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chopped Apple Cake contains roughly 496 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% 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 instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or even chopped peaches for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure the cake is cooked through.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that other ingredients, like baking soda and spices, are also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
Can I freeze Chopped Apple Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake either whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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).