Old Fashion Dutch Apple Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Dutch

A warm, comforting Dutch apple cake featuring tender sliced apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crust—perfect for family gatherings or cozy afternoons with ice cream or whipped cream.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sifted flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup shortening
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • peeled sliced apples
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup coconut (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, 3/4 cup sugar, and brown sugar.
  2. Cut in the shortening with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Beat egg with milk and vanilla in a separate bowl.
  4. Stir the egg mixture into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
  5. Pour the dough into a lightly greased square pan and spread evenly.
  6. Arrange peeled sliced apples in neat rows on top of the dough.
  7. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, coconut (if using), and drizzle with melted butter.
  8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  9. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can substitute the coconut with chopped nuts or leave it out entirely if preferred. If you're looking for a sweeter cake, increase the sugar slightly, but be mindful of the apple sweetness. Ensure the apples are evenly sliced for even baking and flavor distribution.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm as a delightful dessert, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. It also makes a lovely addition to a brunch spread, alongside dishes like Buttered Bisquets or a fruit salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Fashion Dutch Apple Cake contains roughly 461 calories, with 4g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of calcium (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1205mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).

461 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.4g 9% DV
Total Fat 17.3g 22% DV
Carbs 60g 22% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 16.3g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1204.7mg 52% DV
Potassium 324mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 122.9mg 41% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 42.5mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 1.9mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 242.8mg 19% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Contains Milk 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

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it's ready. The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

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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