Northwest Apple Pudding Cake
A moist, spiced apple pudding cake combining tart apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for cozy gatherings and autumn celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter or margarine.
- Add eggs to the mixture and beat well until combined.
- Fold in the grated or shredded tart apples.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the apple mixture, mixing gently.
- Stir in the finely chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using applesauce in place of some butter or margarine. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can omit the walnuts or substitute sunflower seeds. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. Ensure your apples are tart for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a salad or a warm cup of spiced cider. Browse more American recipes for complementary ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Northwest Apple Pudding 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, place individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Northwest Apple Pudding Cake contains roughly 344 calories, with 6g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1639mg per serving (71% 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 recipe?
Yes, while tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for their flavor, you can experiment with other varieties. Just be mindful of the sweetness; if using sweeter apples, you might want to reduce the sugar slightly to maintain the cake's balance.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it at room temperature. Before serving, you can reheat it or enjoy it at room temperature for a delightful treat.
What can I substitute for walnuts in this recipe?
If you prefer to leave out walnuts due to allergies or personal preference, you can substitute them with pecans or almonds for a similar crunch. Alternatively, you can omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version without sacrificing 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).