Shirley'S Apple Cake
A moist and flavorful apple cake featuring cinnamon, walnuts, and a tender crumb, perfect for dessert or teatime gatherings, appealing to fruit and nut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel apples and slice them thin.
- Mix sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and add oil, butter, and orange juice.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well.
- Fold in the apple mixture and black walnuts.
- Pour batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor or swapping black walnuts with pecans if you prefer a milder nut. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing. If you want a sweeter cake, increase the sugar slightly, or drizzle a simple glaze on top after baking. This cake is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful apple cake warm or at room temperature, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It also complements a cup of coffee or tea perfectly, making it ideal for brunch. For a festive touch, try serving it alongside Tina's Strawberry Pizza for a colorful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 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, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley'S Apple Cake contains roughly 1292 calories, with 7g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. 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 a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for large apples, you can use any variety you prefer. Fuji or Honeycrisp apples work wonderfully due to their sweetness and texture. Just choose apples that are firm to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
What can I use instead of black walnuts?
If you're not a fan of black walnuts, you can easily substitute them with regular walnuts or even pecans. Both options will add a nice crunch to the cake without overpowering the flavor of the apples.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this apple cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it properly and bring it to room temperature before serving to enhance its taste and texture.
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).