Tennessee Apple Cake
A moist and flavorful apple cake with cinnamon and nuts, topped with a sweet cream cheese frosting—perfect for cozy gatherings and family desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the cake pan.
- Mix eggs, salad oil, vanilla, brown sugar, and white sugar until well combined.
- Add flour, cinnamon, soda, and salt; mix thoroughly.
- Fold in sliced apples and chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake until golden brown.
- Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, melted butter, vanilla, and sugar to make the frosting.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples. If you don't have salad oil, vegetable oil is a great substitute. Adjust the cinnamon based on your preference; a bit more can enhance the flavor. This cake can also be made in a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation. For a twist, try adding raisins or swapping nuts for oats, similar to Oatmeal-Chocolate Chip Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
This Tennessee Apple Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Serve it alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a delightful twist, consider serving it with Yoo Hoo Chocolate Drink for a nostalgic pairing that complements the apple flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, refrigerate to extend freshness, but allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold as a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Apple Cake contains roughly 1368 calories, with 6g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 842mg per serving (37% 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?
Absolutely! A mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji, can enhance the flavor and texture of your cake. The tartness from Granny Smith will balance the sweetness from the sugars and create a delicious contrast.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, vegan cream cheese can be used instead. Alternatively, you can blend silken tofu with a bit of sugar and vanilla for a lighter frosting that still provides a creamy texture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking soda and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).