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–+ servings
Walnut-Apple Cake
This Walnut Apple Cake is a classic, moist sheet cake brimming with the comforting flavors of fall. Diced apples add natural sweetness and tender texture, while chopped walnuts bring satisfying crunch. Warm cinnamon and vanilla infuse the batter with cozy, spiced aroma. A brown sugar topping drizzled over the warm cake gives a sticky, caramel-like finish. This simple, rustic cake is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy evening treat with coffee or tea.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 385 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 eggs
  • 4 cups apples (diced )
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup walnuts (chopped )
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • ½ cup cooking oil
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • ¾ tsp salt

Topping:

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup oleo (melted, or butter)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  • Break eggs and beat lightly.
  • Stir in diced apples.
  • Add sugar, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, vanilla, and oil.
  • Mix well to combine.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet apple mixture.
  • Batter will be thick.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  • Pour batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan or fluted tube pan.
  • Bake at 350°F for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Add Topping

  • While cake is still warm, mix brown sugar and melted oleo.
  • Spread evenly over the top of the cake.
  • Optional: Top with additional chopped nuts.

Tips

  • Toast the walnuts lightly before chopping for deeper flavor.
  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for better balance.
  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Substitute pecans for walnuts if desired.
  • Dust with powdered sugar instead of the brown sugar topping for a lighter finish.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
  • Let the cake rest 20 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
  • Bake in a tube pan for a more traditional presentation.

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 7.5gCholesterol: 31mgSodium: 215mgPotassium: 185mgFiber: 3.2gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 115IUVitamin C: 3.6mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 1.6mg
Keyword apple cake, comfort food, fall baking, handwritten recipe, spice cake, vintage baking, walnut dessert
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