Apple Dapple Cake

Wholesome Apple Dapple Cake Recipe from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 12

Introduction

The Apple Dapple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of pecans, all wrapped up in a moist, flavorful cake. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the classic combination of apples and cinnamon and are looking for a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this cake is sure to impress with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

History

The Apple Dapple Cake has its roots in the American South, where apples and pecans are abundant and often used in traditional cooking. This cake likely originated in the mid-20th century, a time when home baking saw a resurgence in popularity. It's a recipe that has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own touch to it. The cake's name, "Dapple," refers to the specks of apple and pecan throughout the cake, creating a beautiful dappled effect.

Ingredients

Cake

3 eggs
1.5 cups salad oil
2 cups sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla
3 cups finely chopped apples
1.5 cups chopped pecans

Topping

1 cup brown sugar
0.25 cup milk
1 stick margarine or real butter

How to prepare

Cake

In a mixing bowl, combine eggs, salad oil, and sugar. Blend well.
Add flour, salt, soda, and cinnamon to the mixture. Mix well.
Stir in vanilla, chopped apples, and nuts.
Grease an 8 or 9-inch tube or bundt pan.
Pour the batter into the greased pan.
Bake the cake at 350°F (177°C) for one hour.
While the cake is still hot, pour the topping (see below) over it in the pan.

Topping

In a saucepan, combine all the topping ingredients.
Cook the mixture for 2.5 minutes.
Pour the hot topping from the pan.
Allow the topping to set until it becomes cold.
Once completely cold, remove the cake with the topping from the pan.

Variations

For a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar by one-third.
Add a half cup of raisins or dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and add an extra cup of chopped apples.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Dapple Cake turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor. Mixing tart and sweet apples can enhance the taste of the cake.

- Make sure your baking soda is fresh to ensure the cake rises properly.

- Grease your pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.

- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This makes it easier to remove without breaking.

Serving Suggestions

The Apple Dapple Cake can be served as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It also pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the cake at a moderate temperature (350°F or 177°C) allows it to cook evenly without burning. Pouring the hot topping over the cake while it's still in the pan helps it to absorb the flavors and creates a deliciously moist texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Vegetable oil can be used in place of salad oil.

- Walnuts can be substituted for pecans if desired.

- For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free milk alternative in the topping and a dairy-free butter substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

The Apple Dapple Cake can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together and can make the cake even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cake on a decorative cake stand and dust it lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh apple slices or whole pecans for an extra touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This cake pairs beautifully with a sweet dessert wine, such as a Moscato or Riesling. The sweetness of the wine complements the flavors of the cake without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Apple Dapple Cake contains approximately 400 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates and fats in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Apple Dapple Cake contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are sugar and all-purpose flour, which provide the cake's sweet taste and tender texture.

Fats

This cake is relatively high in fats, with a single serving containing about 20 grams. The fats come from the salad oil, pecans, and butter used in the recipe. These fats contribute to the moistness and rich flavor of the cake.

Proteins

Each serving of Apple Dapple Cake provides around 5 grams of protein. The protein sources in this recipe include eggs and pecans, which also add to the cake's nutritional value.

Vitamins and minerals

The Apple Dapple Cake is a good source of certain vitamins and minerals, particularly from the apples and pecans. Apples provide vitamin C and potassium, while pecans are rich in magnesium, zinc, and vitamin E.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, wheat (gluten), and tree nuts (pecans). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this cake or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Apple Dapple Cake is a delicious treat that provides a good balance of flavors and textures. While it is high in carbohydrates and fats, it also offers some nutritional benefits from the fruits and nuts included in the recipe.

Summary

The Apple Dapple Cake is a timeless dessert that combines the classic flavors of apples and cinnamon with the crunch of pecans. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or a simple treat, this cake is sure to delight. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and delicious taste, the Apple Dapple Cake is a recipe worth keeping in your baking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little cottage on the outskirts of town. Martha was known for her delicious baked goods, and I always looked forward to the treats she would whip up in her quaint kitchen.

As soon as I walked through her front door, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar. I knew immediately that Martha was baking something special. I followed the scent to the kitchen, where I found her bustling about, pulling a golden-brown cake from the oven.

"Hello, my dear!" Martha exclaimed, her eyes twinkling with delight. "I've just made a batch of my famous Apple Dapple Cake. Would you like to try a slice?"

I eagerly accepted her offer and took a seat at the kitchen table. As I took my first bite of the moist, tender cake, I was transported to a place of pure bliss. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and crunchy nuts was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this cake myself.

Martha saw the look of awe on my face and chuckled softly. "Would you like the recipe, my dear?" she asked, her eyes glinting mischievously.

I nodded eagerly, my mouth still full of cake. Martha rummaged through a stack of well-loved recipe cards and handed me a faded piece of paper. The handwritten instructions were simple and straightforward, but I knew that mastering this recipe would take time and practice.

Over the next few weeks, I made it my mission to perfect Martha's Apple Dapple Cake. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – crisp apples, fragrant cinnamon, rich butter, and crunchy pecans – and set to work in my own kitchen. I followed Martha's instructions to the letter, mixing, stirring, and baking with care and precision.

The first few attempts were not quite right – the cake was too dry, the apples too mushy, the flavors not quite balanced. But I remained determined, tweaking the recipe here and there, adjusting the oven temperature, and experimenting with different types of apples and spices.

Finally, after countless batches and many late nights spent baking and tasting, I achieved perfection. The cake was moist and tender, with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. The apples were perfectly cooked, the nuts added a delightful crunch, and the glaze on top glistened like amber in the sun.

I proudly presented my creation to Martha, who took a bite and smiled with approval. "Well done, my dear," she said, her eyes twinkling with pride. "You have truly mastered the art of Apple Dapple Cake."

From that day on, Martha's Apple Dapple Cake became a staple in my household. I would bake it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I shared it with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who crossed my path, spreading the joy and deliciousness of this beloved recipe far and wide.

As the years passed, I continued to make Martha's Apple Dapple Cake, each time recalling that fateful summer day when I first discovered the recipe. It became more than just a dessert – it was a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing something delicious with the ones you love.

And so, whenever I bake a batch of Apple Dapple Cake, I am transported back to Martha's cozy kitchen, the scent of apples and cinnamon filling the air, the laughter and camaraderie that we shared. It is a memory that I hold dear, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections.

And so, I pass on this recipe to you, dear reader, in the hopes that you too will experience the joy and wonder of Martha's Apple Dapple Cake. May it bring you as much happiness and delight as it has brought me over the years. Happy baking!