Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake

🍰🍏🌰 Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake 🌰🍏🍰

What is it?
Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the crunchiness of pecans into a moist and flavorful cake. It’s a perfect treat for fall or any time you’re craving a comforting, homemade dessert.

History:
While the exact origin of this specific cake isn’t well-documented, apple-based desserts have a rich history in many cultures. Apples have been a popular fruit for baking for centuries, and combining them with cinnamon and nuts is a timeless flavor combination.

Components:
To make an Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake, you’ll need the following components:

• Apples: Usually Granny Smith or similar tart apples work well for this cake.
• Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the cake batter.
• Sugar: Typically granulated sugar is used for sweetness.
• Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon provides that warm, cozy flavor.
• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a pleasant aroma and flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: Often used to keep the cake moist.
• Chopped Pecans: These provide a lovely nutty texture and flavor.
• Optional: You can also include ingredients like nutmeg or cloves for added spice.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, usually around 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces. Toss them with a bit of sugar and cinnamon to enhance their flavor.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, add vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
5. Blend Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
6. Fold in Apples and Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped apples and pecans into the batter.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare and bake an Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, including prep and baking time. It may vary depending on your experience in the kitchen and the specific recipe you follow.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake! 🍰🍏🌰

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 300-400 kcal
• Total Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 2-4g
• Cholesterol: 30-50mg
• Sodium: 150-250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40-50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-4g
  • Sugars: 20-30g
• Protein: 4-6g
• Vitamin C: 2-4% of Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 2-4% DV
• Iron: 6-10% DV

Health Information:

1. Moderation: While Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cake can be a delicious treat, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its relatively high sugar and calorie content.

2. Fiber: The cake may provide a small amount of dietary fiber from the apples and possibly nuts. Fiber is good for digestion and can help you feel full longer.

3. Vitamins: Apples can contribute to your daily vitamin C intake, which is important for a healthy immune system.

4. Fats: The cake contains fats, primarily from the nuts and any added oils. While fats are essential for your diet, it’s advisable to limit saturated fats.

5. Sugar: The sugar content in this cake primarily comes from both added sugar and natural sugars in the apples. Excess sugar intake should be moderated for a balanced diet.

6. Portion Size: Be mindful of portion sizes. Smaller slices can help control calorie and sugar intake.

7. Variations: You can make healthier versions of this cake by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, and using healthier fats, like olive oil or unsweetened applesauce.

Remember that the nutrition content can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to enjoy such desserts as an occasional treat and focus on a balanced diet for overall health.