Fresh Apple Pecan Cake
A moist and flavorful apple pecan cake featuring fresh apples and toasted pecans, balanced with warm spices like cinnamon and mace. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy dessert, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to fruit and nut lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually mix in sifted flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and mace.
- Fold in chopped fresh apples and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist cake, use tart apples like Granny Smith. You can substitute half of the butter with applesauce for a lighter version. If you don't have mace, nutmeg can be a good alternative. Make sure to sift the flour to prevent clumping, and consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. This cake is a delightful addition to tea time, similar to a Sheath Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider serving with a side of caramel sauce. This cake is perfect for gatherings, making it a great companion to American recipes like Coconut-Orange Chess Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Apple Pecan Cake contains roughly 783 calories, with 2g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1070mg per serving (47% 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 frozen apples instead of fresh?
While fresh apples are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen apples. Thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the cake's consistency.
What type of apples work best for this cake?
Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake. Avoid overly sweet apples as they may make the cake too sweet.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Adjust the baking time if needed, as gluten-free cakes can sometimes require different cooking times.
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).