Katie Barnes' Knobby Apple Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for fall gatherings or family desserts, featuring diced apples and optional nuts for added texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the sugar and shortening.
- Add the egg, vanilla, diced apples, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Mix in the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 9-inch cake pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you have a nut allergy, omit the chopped nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for added texture. For an extra moist cake, try adding a 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Be sure to use firm apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with Home Made Ice Cream for a delicious dessert experience. Serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. It also makes a great breakfast treat alongside coffee or tea, perfect for a cozy morning.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Knobby Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold with a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Katie Barnes' Knobby Apple Cake contains roughly 417 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1408mg per serving (61% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the spice levels accordingly, as different fruits have varying sweetness and flavor profiles. Keep in mind that the moisture content may also change, so you might need to tweak the baking time.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure to check that it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with texture. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cake while it's baking.
How can I make this cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to the batter. Additionally, incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract alongside the one already in the recipe can elevate the taste. For a spicier kick, a pinch of ginger can also be a wonderful addition.
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).