Autumn Surprise Cake

8 servings servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 45 m Total: 1 h Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
A moist autumn cake made with fresh chopped apples, pecans, and coconut. This simple one-bowl cake gets its tender crumb from apples macerated in sugar, creating their own sweet juice that infuses every bite with fall flavor.

Ingredients

8 servings servings
  • 2 apples, chopped and unpeeled
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cup flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup cooking oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 cup flaked coconut

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the apples and sugar and let stand 15 minutes to form juice.
  2. In a separate bowl sift the flour, salt and baking soda together. Add to the apples. Add the remaining ingredients (oil, egg, vanilla, pecans, and coconut) and mix thoroughly.
  3. Pour into a greased and floured 8 inch square pan. Bake 40 to 45 minutes at 350 degrees until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Then eat!

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my cake dry?

A: Make sure you let the apples and sugar sit for the full 15 minutes to create enough juice. This natural syrup is what keeps the cake moist. Also avoid overbaking—check at 40 minutes with a toothpick.

Q: Can I use different types of apples?

A: Yes! Granny Smith adds tartness, Honeycrisp adds sweetness and crunch, or use a mix. Avoid Red Delicious as they don't hold up well when baked.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t peel the apples—the skins add color, texture, and help the apple pieces hold their shape during baking. The sugar maceration step is crucial, so don’t skip it even though it seems simple.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • cooking oil: melted coconut oil or melted butter
  • flaked coconut: additional 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • pecans: walnuts or omit if you have nut allergies

Equipment Needed

  • 8-inch square baking pan
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk or sifter for dry ingredients

Historical Context

Maceration—letting fruit sit with sugar to draw out its natural juices—is a traditional Southern baking technique that maximizes flavor and moisture without adding extra liquid. This creates a tender crumb that stays fresh for days.