Grandmother Jones' Raw Apple Cake
A nostalgic, moist apple cake featuring chopped apples, dates, and nuts, with warm cinnamon and a tender crumb, perfect for family gatherings and cozy desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together shortening, sugar, and beaten eggs.
- Mix dry ingredients (flour, salt, cinnamon, soda) together and add to the creamed mixture.
- Fold in chopped nuts, chopped dates, and chopped apples.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Let stand a little before cutting.
- Serve hot with whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of half the shortening. You can also substitute walnuts for the nuts if preferred. If you like a bit of extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. Make sure to chop the apples and dates uniformly for even distribution in the cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is best served warm, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert experience. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of spiced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover 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 about 15-20 seconds, or warm in the oven at 300°F until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother Jones' Raw Apple Cake contains roughly 705 calories, with 4g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 731mg per serving (32% 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?
Yes, you can use a mix of apples for added flavor and texture. Tart apples like Granny Smith will balance the sweetness, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp will enhance the overall flavor of the cake.
Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a healthier option, use applesauce or Greek yogurt as a fat replacement.
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).