Holiday Apple Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 55 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful apple cake with nuts and vanilla, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, topped with a sweet glazed icing while still warm.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. sugar
  • 2/3 c. corn oil
  • 2 c. flour
  • 2 c. grated apples
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 c. chopped nuts
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. soda
  • 2 tsp. vanilla

Instructions

  1. Sift all dry ingredients together, then add grated apples.
  2. Mix well, then add eggs, corn oil, and vanilla.
  3. Beat the mixture well, then fold in chopped nuts.
  4. Pour batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. While the cake is still hot, top with glazed icing.

Tips & Substitutions

For a moist and flavorful cake, use freshly grated apples and consider substituting half of the corn oil with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. To enhance the flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This Holiday Apple Cake is delightful on its own, but you can enhance its appeal by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of homemade vanilla pudding. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for brunch or dessert. For an extra touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with whipped cream.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Holiday Apple Cake contains roughly 364 calories, with 6g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 475mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

364 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.4g 13% DV
Total Fat 3.7g 5% DV
Carbs 69.9g 25% DV
Fiber 3.5g 12% DV
Sugar 5.8g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 474.6mg 21% DV
Potassium 421.1mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 104.7mg 35% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 30.4mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 14.8mg 16% DV
Calcium 114.8mg 9% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 types of fruit instead of apples?

Yes, you can experiment with other grated fruits like pears or even zucchini for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the cake cooks through.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of this Holiday Apple Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, particularly the baking soda, are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze the cake for later use?

Yes, this cake freezes well! After it has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, leave it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

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).

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