Harvest Time Dessert
A warm, spiced apple dessert with nuts, perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy family dinners, featuring cinnamon, vanilla, and a moist, tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine apples and sugar in a bowl and let stand.
- Beat eggs slightly; beat in oil and vanilla.
- Mix flour, soda, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Stir the flour mixture into the apples and sugar mixture; add nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter dessert, consider adding a touch more sugar or using a sweeter apple variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. Additionally, to enhance the flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the spice mix. For a fun twist, try including dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of warm cider or coffee. For a more festive presentation, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving or add a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the dessert to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its fresh-baked texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvest Time Dessert contains roughly 1273 calories, with 21g protein, 202g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1958mg per serving (85% 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 pears or peaches for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the moisture content of the fruit may vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly if using sweeter fruits.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the texture, or add a bit separately if it doesn’t.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
While it’s best to bake the batter fresh for optimal texture, you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately a day ahead. Mix them together just before baking to ensure the best rise and flavor.
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).