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–+ servings
Apple Cakes from Aunt Verda
Apple Cakes are a cherished slice of Americana, soft, spiced treats featuring chopped apples that are perfect for fall or cozy evenings. Passed down through generations, these cakes reflect a time when recipes were handwritten, ingredients were simple, and flavors came from the heart. The addition of cinnamon and a sweet brown sugar topping creates a warm, nostalgic dessert that reminds many of their grandmother’s kitchen. These small cakes are ideal for tea time, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave something comforting and homemade.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup shortening
  • 1 egg (beaten )
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1½ cups flour (sifted )
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 3 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup peeled (chopped tart apples)

Optional Topping:

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
  • ½ tsp cinnamon

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream the Base

  • Cream together shortening and sugar.
  • Add the beaten egg and mix until smooth.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

  • Gradually stir dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, alternating with milk.

Step 4: Add Apples

  • Fold in the chopped apples.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

  • Spoon the batter into greased muffin tins or a baking pan.

Step 6: Add Optional Topping

  • In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chopped nuts, and cinnamon.
  • Sprinkle topping evenly over the batter.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips

  • Add chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for texture.
  • Replace half the shortening with butter for richer flavor.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for deeper fall spice.
  • Use a muffin tin for easy portioning.
  • Add raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
  • Swap brown sugar for half the white sugar for a deeper caramel note.
  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Fold in ½ tsp vanilla extract for aroma.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 2.5gFat: 9.5gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.1gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 165mgPotassium: 95mgFiber: 1.2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 110IUVitamin C: 1.5mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Apple, apple cake, cinnamon, cinnamon fall baking, comfort food, fall baking, handwritten recipe, heirloom, old-fashioned baking, vintage recipe
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