Apple Nut Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that balances the sweetness of apples with the rich crunch of chopped nuts. Popular in American kitchens, particularly in the mid-20th century, this cake reflects the homey comfort of baking with seasonal fruit. It’s often served as a simple snack cake or dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream for dessert. The oil keeps the crumb tender, while the apples lend natural sweetness and moisture, making it a reliable and satisfying cake for fall gatherings, Sunday suppers, or casual potlucks. It is beloved for its rustic charm and its ability to highlight the flavors of fresh apples and toasty nuts in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- ¾ cup oil
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups apples (chopped, or a little more)
- 1 cup nuts (chopped, walnuts or pecans recommended)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Pan
- Grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking pan. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir well.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Add oil and eggs to the dry mixture. Stir until blended.
Step 4: Fold in Apples & Nuts
- Stir in chopped apples, nuts, and vanilla until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Do not overbake or the cake will be dry.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
- Allow cake to cool in the pan. Cut into squares and serve plain or with whipped cream.
Tips
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for deeper flavor.
- Lightly toast the nuts before adding for extra nuttiness.
- Add warm spices (cinnamon or nutmeg) if desired for a fall flavor.
- Substitute part of the oil with applesauce for a lighter version.
- Fold in raisins or chopped dates for extra sweetness and texture.
- Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar instead of frosting.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for holiday spice notes.
- Reduce sugar slightly if using very sweet apples.
- Line the pan with parchment for easy removal.
Nutrition
Calories: 325kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 4gFat: 21.7gSaturated Fat: 2.9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6.46gMonounsaturated Fat: 11.56gTrans Fat: 0.06gCholesterol: 27mgSodium: 165mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 26gVitamin A: 70IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg
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