Apple Bean Cake

Apple Bean Cake Recipe - Delicious and Easy-to-Follow

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

The Apple Bean Cake is a unique and delightful dessert that combines the earthy flavors of beans with the sweet and tangy taste of apples. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a dessert that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of beans and apples makes this cake a healthier alternative to traditional cakes, providing a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

History

The Apple Bean Cake has its roots in traditional American cuisine, where beans and apples were commonly used ingredients due to their availability and nutritional value. This recipe is a modern take on those traditional dishes, combining them into a sweet treat that pays homage to the past while providing a contemporary flavor profile. It's a testament to the creativity of home cooks who experimented with available ingredients to create something new and delicious.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked pink beans
0.5 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 egg
0.5 cup apple butter
1.5 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp ground cloves
0.5 tsp ground allspice
1 cup apple
4 cup confectioners' sugar
4 tbsp butter or margarine
5 tbsp coffee

How to prepare

Grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a medium bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and continue beating until light.
Stir in the bean puree and apple butter.
Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice into a medium bowl.
Stir the flour mixture into the bean mixture until blended.
Mix in the diced apple and pour the batter into the greased pans.
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and cool them on racks.
Prepare the coffee icing in a small bowl by combining powdered sugar, butter, and a dash of salt.
Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until blended.
Add 3 to 4 tbsp of coffee and beat until smooth.
Beat in the remaining coffee, 1 tsp at a time, as needed for spreading consistency.
Layer the cakes with the icing.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. You can also substitute the apple butter with pear butter for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making your Apple Bean Cake, consider the following tips:

- Make sure the beans are thoroughly cooked and mashed to a smooth consistency to avoid lumps in the cake.

- Use fresh apples for the best flavor. Choose a variety that is both sweet and slightly tart, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

- When mixing the batter, do not overmix as this can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

- Allow the cakes to cool completely before icing to prevent the icing from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Apple Bean Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. A warm cup of coffee or tea also pairs wonderfully with this cake.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe involves creaming the shortening and sugar, which is a key technique for achieving a light and fluffy cake. Additionally, the method of folding in the flour mixture gently helps maintain the cake's tender crumb.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this cake vegan, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg and use vegan shortening and margarine. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Make Ahead Tips

The cakes can be baked ahead of time and stored, tightly wrapped, at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month. The icing can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Simply bring it to room temperature before using.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, decorate the top of the cake with thin apple slices arranged in a circular pattern. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

This cake pairs beautifully with a sweet dessert wine such as Moscato or a rich, full-bodied coffee like an espresso to balance the sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave or oven until just heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Apple Bean Cake contains approximately 350 calories, making it a relatively energy-dense dessert option. Enjoy it as a treat within a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This Apple Bean Cake is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for daily activities. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the sugar, flour, and apples. Each serving contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the shortening, margarine, and egg. These ingredients contribute to the cake's moist texture and rich flavor. Each serving contains about 15 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this cake a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving of Apple Bean Cake contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Thanks to the beans and apples, this cake is rich in several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, potassium, and iron. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and wheat (gluten). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should take caution.

Summary

Overall, the Apple Bean Cake is a nutritious dessert option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of beans and apples in a sweet treat.

Summary

The Apple Bean Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the nutritional benefits of beans and apples with the indulgence of a sweet treat. With its rich history, versatile recipe variations, and nutritional value, it's a wonderful addition to any dessert table. Whether you're looking for a healthier dessert option or simply want to try something new, this cake is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the kitchen window as I rummaged through an old recipe box that had been passed down to me from my mother. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and faded newspaper clippings, my eyes landed on a small piece of paper with a handwritten recipe for Apple Bean Cake.

I had never heard of such a dessert before, but the name intrigued me. I could almost taste the combination of sweet apples and hearty beans, mixed together in a moist and flavorful cake. Without hesitation, I set out to make this mysterious recipe, eager to uncover its secrets.

As I gathered the ingredients and began to mix them together, memories flooded back to me of all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from friends and neighbors, and a few were even passed down from generations before me. Each recipe told a story, a glimpse into someone else's world and a taste of their culture and traditions.

But this Apple Bean Cake felt different. It felt like a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered and shared with others. As the cake baked in the oven, the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon filled the kitchen, bringing back memories of my own childhood and the meals my mother used to make for us.

When the cake was finally done, I couldn't wait to taste it. The first bite was like nothing I had ever experienced before. The apples were tender and juicy, the beans added a rich and nutty flavor, and the spices melded together perfectly. It was a symphony of flavors in every bite, a true masterpiece of a dessert.

I knew then that this recipe was special, and I made a promise to myself to share it with my family and friends. Over the years, I have made this Apple Bean Cake countless times, each time receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It has become a staple in my kitchen, a symbol of my love for cooking and my appreciation for the culinary traditions of those who came before me.

As I sit here now, writing this story and reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones, gratitude for the memories and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today, and gratitude for the joy that comes from creating something delicious and meaningful with my own two hands.

So here it is, my recipe for Apple Bean Cake, passed down from an unknown source but cherished by me and my family for years to come. May it bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me, and may it inspire you to continue exploring the rich and diverse world of cooking and baking. Bon appétit!