"Esther Saners" Apple Cake
A comforting apple cake with a flaky crust, sweet cinnamon-spiced apples, perfect for family gatherings or cozy afternoons with a warm cup of tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, blend together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add margarine and mix until the mixture is fine and crumbly.
- Beat eggs with cold water and mix with a fork.
- Combine all ingredients to form a dough. Press the dough with fingers into a 10 x 15-inch sheet on a cookie sheet.
- Cut apples into 1/8th slices and arrange them in rows on top of the dough.
- Mix 1/2 cup sugar with cinnamon and a little nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples.
- Dot the apples with small pieces of margarine or butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the apples are soft and the crust is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider replacing half the margarine with butter. You can also use different types of apples for varied sweetness; Granny Smith adds tartness while Fuji brings sweetness. If you want a firmer crust, chill the dough before pressing it into the pan. Make sure the apples are evenly sliced to ensure uniform cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this apple cake warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Cottage Pudding With Sauce, making it a delightful dessert after a hearty meal. This cake also complements a cup of tea or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 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, place individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Esther Saners" Apple Cake contains roughly 114 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may result in a denser cake. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but ensure it contains xanthan gum to help with texture.
How can I prevent the apples from browning before baking?
To prevent browning, toss the apple slices in a little lemon juice after slicing. This will help maintain their color and provide a slight tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.
What can I do if I don’t have enough apples?
If you're short on apples, you can substitute with pears or a mixture of apples and other fruits like berries. Just ensure the total amount of fruit is approximately the same to maintain the cake's moisture balance.
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).