Chunky Apple Cake

Chunky Apple Cake Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 9

Introduction

Chunky Apple Cake is a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This cake is filled with chunks of fresh apples and warm spices, making it a favorite among many. The combination of sweet and tart flavors in this cake is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The Chunky Apple Cake recipe has been passed down through generations in many families. It is a classic dessert that is often made during the fall season when apples are in abundance. This recipe originated in the United States and has since become a popular choice for those looking for a simple and tasty dessert.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp salt
0.75 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp stick margarine, softened
1 egg
2 tbsp low-fat (1%) milk
2 large baking apples, cored and sliced (3 cup)
1 tsp granulated sugar
0.5 tsp cinnamon

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Spray an 8x8 inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer at medium speed, beat the sugar and margarine together until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Beat in the egg and milk until smooth, about 1 minute.
Add the flour mixture to the margarine mixture in thirds, beating until smooth, about 2 minutes.
Using a large spoon, stir in the apples until evenly distributed.
Spread the batter in the prepared baking pan.
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly on the batter.
Bake until browned and the sides start to pull away from the pan, about 40-45 minutes.

Variations

Add a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake before serving for a decadent touch.
Sprinkle a streusel topping over the batter before baking for a crunchy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use baking apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.

- Make sure to core and slice the apples evenly to ensure even baking.

- You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture and flavor.

- Serve the Chunky Apple Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chunky Apple Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat the oven before baking to ensure even cooking.

- Use a toothpick to test the doneness of the cake - it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute whole milk for low-fat milk if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The Chunky Apple Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving for a decorative touch. - Serve the cake on a platter with fresh apple slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Chunky Apple Cake with a glass of apple cider or a hot cup of tea for a cozy dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chunky Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, simply microwave a slice of cake for 20-30 seconds or until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

220

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 24g

Fats

- Total Fat: 6g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 4%

- Vitamin C: 2%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 4%

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Egg, Milk

Summary

Chunky Apple Cake is a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a small amount of protein. It also provides some essential vitamins and minerals, making it a tasty and nutritious dessert option.

Summary

Chunky Apple Cake is a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the warm flavors of fresh apples and spices in this delightful cake.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Chunky Apple Cake. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, the leaves were falling from the trees and the smell of cinnamon and apples filled the air. I was at my friend Margaret's house for a cozy gathering and she had just pulled this delicious cake out of the oven. The warm, spicy aroma wafted through the room, tempting me with its comforting scent.

Margaret noticed my interest and offered me a slice of the cake. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a place of warmth and happiness. The chunks of apples were soft and tender, the spices were perfectly balanced, and the cake itself was moist and flavorful. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delightful dessert.

I asked Margaret for the recipe, and she happily obliged. She explained to me that the recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, and that she had made a few tweaks of her own over the years. She handed me a faded, stained index card with the recipe written in elegant script. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation.

When I got back home, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients and getting to work. I carefully followed each step, chopping the apples, mixing the batter, and patiently waiting for the cake to bake. The scent of cinnamon and apples filled my kitchen, just as it had in Margaret's home. When the cake was finally done, I eagerly sliced into it and took a bite. It was just as delicious as I remembered, if not more so.

From that day on, Chunky Apple Cake became a staple in my dessert repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I baked it, the memories of that autumn day at Margaret's house came flooding back to me. I could almost hear the laughter of friends, feel the warmth of the oven, and taste the sweet, spiced apples.

As the years went by, I continued to make Chunky Apple Cake, but I also experimented with the recipe. I added a touch of nutmeg here, a splash of vanilla there, until I had created my own version of the classic dessert. I shared my recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness.

One day, my granddaughter came to visit me in the kitchen while I was baking Chunky Apple Cake. She watched with wide eyes as I peeled and chopped the apples, mixed the batter, and carefully arranged the slices on top. When the cake was finally done, she eagerly took a bite and exclaimed, "This is the best cake I've ever tasted, Grandma!"

I smiled at her, feeling a sense of pride and joy. It was in that moment that I realized the true power of recipes - they are not just instructions for creating food, but memories that can be passed down through generations. I knew that my granddaughter would one day make Chunky Apple Cake for her own loved ones, and that the tradition would continue on.

And so, as I sit here now, writing this story and reflecting on the many years I have spent baking Chunky Apple Cake, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the friends who have shared their recipes with me, for the memories that have been created around this simple dessert, and for the joy that baking brings to my heart.

I may not know where Margaret's recipe originally came from, or who first thought to combine apples and spices in such a delicious way. But what I do know is that Chunky Apple Cake will always hold a special place in my heart, a symbol of love, friendship, and the joy of sharing good food with the ones we hold dear.