Illinois Delicious Apple Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake featuring tender slices of Delicious apples and crunchy pecans, perfect for fall gatherings or a comforting dessert for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a large mixing bowl.
- Beat eggs; gradually add sugar, then incorporate the oil.
- Add 3 cups of sliced Delicious apples and 1 cup of chopped pecans.
- Sift together 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla.
- Mix well but be careful not to overbeat or apples will turn into sauce.
- Grease and lightly flour a 9 x 13-inch pan or two 9-inch pans.
- Start with a cold oven. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider using Granny Smith apples for a slight tartness that complements the sweetness. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg. Make sure not to overmix the batter as this can lead to a dense cake. For best results, use fresh apples and let the batter sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This apple cake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. It also makes a lovely dessert for gatherings, similar to American recipes that showcase seasonal fruits.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate, which will extend its freshness for about a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Illinois Delicious Apple Cake contains roughly 947 calories, with 10g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1071mg 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 other types of apples in this recipe?
Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp, but keep in mind that your cake's flavor and texture may vary slightly. Choose apples that are firm and not overly ripe to avoid a mushy cake. Each type of apple has its own unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. To remedy this, serve the cake with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a side of applesauce to add moisture. Another tip is to brush the cooled cake with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this apple cake, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check that your baking soda is gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives. Also, consider adding a bit of xanthan gum to help with the texture.
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).