Syrian Apple Cake
A moist, spiced apple cake with crunchy nuts, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons, blending cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a warm, inviting flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir the peeled and chopped apples, sugar, and oil together and let stand for one hour.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; pour over the apple mixture.
- Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured Bundt pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour or until a pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a different nut, try using almonds instead of pecans or walnuts. Ensure the apples are tart, like Granny Smith, for the best flavor contrast. Letting the mixture sit for an hour allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Syrian Apple Cake slightly warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful contrast, try it alongside a cup of Lo-Cal Spiced Tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three 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 15-20 seconds, or until just warm, to enjoy it fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Syrian Apple Cake contains roughly 566 calories, with 9g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 898mg per serving (39% 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?
Yes, you can use a mix of apples to create a more complex flavor profile. Just make sure to use some tart apples for balance, like Granny Smith, alongside sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking soda you use is gluten-free as well, and double-check your other ingredients for any potential gluten content.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. 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).