Old Fashioned Dried Apple Stack Cake
A hearty layered cake featuring dried apples and warm spices, perfect for fall gatherings and nostalgic desserts, combining moist layers with fruity filling and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shortening ⓘ
- 1 egg, well beaten ⓘ
- 1/2 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1/3 cup molasses ⓘ
- 1/2 cup buttermilk ⓘ
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons baking powder ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon soda ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon vanilla ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves ⓘ
- dash of nutmeg ⓘ
Instructions
- Thoroughly cream together sugar and shortening.
- Add egg, molasses, and buttermilk; blend well.
- Sift together dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture.
- Mix thoroughly and add vanilla.
- Chill dough until easily handled.
- Divide dough into 4 equal parts.
- Roll each part into about 9-inch circles.
- Place each circle in greased 9-inch cake pans.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes or until done.
- Allow layers to cool.
- Spread layers with prepared dried apples between each layer.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your shortening is at room temperature before creaming with the sugar. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For added flavor, consider incorporating nuts or raisins into the layers along with the dried apples. This cake can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat alongside afternoon tea. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a side of Tasty Spinach Dip for a savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the layers, which can last up to a week. When ready to serve, let them come to room temperature, or briefly reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Dried Apple Stack Cake contains roughly 2075 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 213g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1047mg per serving (46% 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 fresh apples instead of dried apples?
While dried apples are traditional, you can use fresh apples if you prefer. Sauté them with a bit of sugar and cinnamon to mimic the sweetness and texture of dried apples. Just ensure to drain any excess moisture before spreading them between the layers.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Old Fashioned Dried Apple Stack Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. The results will still be delicious and satisfying!
How long does the cake last after assembly?
Once assembled, the cake can last for about 3-5 days at room temperature if stored properly in an airtight container. The flavors often improve as it sits, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
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).