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Nobby Apple Cake
Nobby Apple Cake is a cozy, old-fashioned dessert brimming with warm spices and chunks of fresh apples. This cake, popular in mid-century American kitchens, is simple to prepare and highlights the natural sweetness and texture of apples. Its name, “nobby,” refers to the rustic, bumpy texture from the chopped apples and nuts folded into the batter. Served warm or cold, it's equally delicious topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The recipe's charm lies in its unpretentious, hearty character, perfect for family gatherings, autumn desserts, or whenever you're craving nostalgic comfort.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 157 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 cup sifted flour
  • 3 cups apples (diced , Cortlands recommended)
  • ¼ cup nuts (chopped )
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Base

  • Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Add the beaten egg and mix well.

Step 2: Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine

  • Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and stir until just combined.

Step 4: Add Apples & Nuts

  • Fold in diced apples, chopped nuts, and vanilla.

Step 5: Bake

  • Pour mixture into a greased 8 x 8 x 12-inch pan.
  • Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Serve

  • Serve hot or cold with or without whipped cream or ice cream.

Tips

  • Use tart, firm apples such as Cortlands (as the card notes) or Granny Smith for best texture.
  • Add ½ cup raisins for a more old-fashioned flavor.
  • Replace nuts with pecans or walnuts for a deeper nutty note.
  • Add a streusel topping for extra crunch.
  • Substitute brown sugar for half the granulated sugar for a richer caramel taste.
  • Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of applesauce for added moisture.
  • Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a crisp crust.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
  • Turn it into cupcakes by baking in lined muffin tins (20 to 25 minutes).
  • Add a splash of rum or bourbon for a warm, spiced variation.

Nutrition

Calories: 157kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 139mgPotassium: 73mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 38IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 17mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword apple cake, cozy dessert, easy apple dessert, fall baking, heirloom recipe, homemade cake, vintage baking
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