Lil'S Fresh Apple Cake
A moist, flavorful apple cake with crunchy pecans and warm spices, perfect for fall gatherings or dessert tables, appealing to fruit and nut lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix diced apples, sugar, and chopped pecans; let stand for 1 hour, stirring often to form juice.
- Add dry ingredients to the apple mixture, then incorporate cooking oil, vanilla, and beaten eggs.
- Mix by hand without a mixer until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool; icing is optional.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples for complexity. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. To make this cake even more moist, try adding a little applesauce or yogurt. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover apples from recipes like Baked Apple Wedges.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this apple cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for a sweet finish. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings. For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through. This keeps the cake moist and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lil'S Fresh Apple Cake contains roughly 943 calories, with 9g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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?
Absolutely! Using a combination of sweet and tart apples can enhance the flavor of the cake. Popular choices include Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Just make sure to peel and dice them before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it necessary to let the apple mixture sit for an hour?
Yes, allowing the apple mixture to rest helps draw out the juices from the apples and combines the flavors with the sugar and pecans. This step is crucial for ensuring a moist and flavorful cake, so don't skip it!
Can I freeze this apple cake?
Yes, you can freeze the apple cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw 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).