Colonial Apple Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake with warm cinnamon and lemon zest, perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon tea, combining tender apples and a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients together in a bowl; set aside.
- Cream the sugar, Crisco, oil, and eggs until smooth and fluffy.
- Add dry ingredients alternately with milk, beating after each addition.
- Stir in chopped apples, lemon juice, and vanilla; blend well.
- Pour batter into a greased 10-inch tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool slightly, then sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist cake, ensure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. You can substitute Crisco oil with vegetable oil or melted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a spicier cake, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. For a fun twist, try adding some chopped nuts or raisins to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This Colonial Apple Cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. For a delightful breakfast or brunch option, serve alongside Apricot And Peach Salad or with coffee for a cozy treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a microwave or oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colonial Apple Cake contains roughly 93 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 772mg 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 different types of apples for this cake?
Absolutely! Using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, enhances the flavor and texture. Experiment to find your favorite combination, but make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even baking.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is not strictly necessary, but it can affect the texture of the cake. Leaving the skin on adds a rustic touch and more fiber, but if you prefer a smoother texture, peel them before chopping.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake holds up well when made in advance. You can bake it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature. Just remember to sprinkle the powdered sugar right before serving to keep it looking fresh.
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).