Fresh Apple Cake

12 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 1 h 20 m Total: 1 h 40 m Beginner
Apple cake continues to be one of the most popular cakes around with fresh apples, pecans, and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Interesting fact: Apples float because at least 25% of their mass is air.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Wesson or Canola oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 cups plain flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp soda
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp cloves
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vanilla
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 3 cups apples, chopped (about 2 1/2 apples)
  • margarine for creaming (amount not specified - about 1/2 cup recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a bundt pan.
  2. Cream vanilla, sugar and margarine (margarine at room temperature), add eggs and oil and mix well.
  3. Combine baking powder, soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt with flour. Add to the creamed mixture along with chopped apples and pecans. Mix until just combined.
  4. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my cake dry?

A: Make sure you're measuring the apples correctly - you need a full 3 cups of chopped apples. The moisture from the apples is essential. Also, don't overbake; check at 1 hour 15 minutes with a toothpick.

Q: Can I use a different pan instead of a bundt pan?

A: Yes, you can use a 9x13 inch baking pan, but reduce the baking time to about 45-55 minutes. The cake won't be as tall but will still be delicious.

Tips and Techniques

Room temperature margarine creams much better with sugar. Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture - they hold up well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • margarine: softened butter
  • pecans: walnuts or omit entirely
  • fresh apples: canned apple pie filling (drained)

Equipment Needed

  • bundt pan
  • mixing bowls
  • electric mixer or wooden spoon