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Apple Pecan Cake with Cinnamon Frosting is a delectable dessert that combines the rich, warm flavors of apples, pecans, and cinnamon. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for autumn or any time you’re craving a delicious, homemade treat. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and estimated preparation time:
History:
The history of apple pecan cake is deeply rooted in American baking traditions. Apples have been a staple in American desserts for centuries, and pecans, a native nut of North America, are often incorporated into various Southern recipes. Cinnamon, with its warm and spicy aroma, complements the apples and pecans beautifully. While there isn’t a specific historical account for this cake, it likely evolved from these regional influences.
Components:
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Cake: The main components of the cake include apples, pecans, flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
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Cinnamon Frosting: The frosting typically consists of powdered sugar, butter, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a bit of milk or cream for texture.
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delightful cake:
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Gather Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of peeled, chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1 cup of chopped pecans
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. -
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside. -
Cream Butter and Sugar:
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. -
Add Eggs:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated. -
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. -
Fold in Apples and Pecans:
Gently fold in the chopped apples and pecans. -
Bake:
Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Prepare Cinnamon Frosting:
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, softened butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Add a splash of milk or cream to achieve your desired frosting consistency. -
Frost the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, spread the cinnamon frosting evenly over the top. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice, serve, and savor this delicious apple pecan cake with cinnamon frosting!
Preparation Time:
The estimated time to prepare and bake this cake is around 1.5 to 2 hours, including prep time and baking. Please note that cooling time is not included in this estimate, so allow some extra time for the cake to cool before frosting and serving.
Now, enjoy your homemade Apple Pecan Cake with Cinnamon Frosting โ a delightful treat perfect for any occasion! ๐ฐ๐๐ฐ๐ฅฎ๐๐ง๐
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for a typical serving of Apple Pecan Cake with Cinnamon Frosting:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 Serving):
- Calories: About 350-400 calories per slice (depending on slice size)
- Total Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: Around 7-10 grams
- Cholesterol: Roughly 40-60 milligrams
- Sodium: About 150-250 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Around 2-3 grams
- Sugars: Roughly 30-40 grams
- Protein: About 3-5 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation is Key: While this cake can be a delightful treat, it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its sugar and fat content. Limiting portion size is advisable.
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Nutrient Variability: The nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Opting for healthier substitutions, such as whole wheat flour or reduced-fat frosting, can make the cake slightly more nutritious.
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Fruit and Nuts: The presence of apples and pecans in the cake adds some beneficial nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. These ingredients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the dessert.
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Sugar Content: Be mindful of the sugar content in the frosting and cake. Consider reducing sugar if you’re looking to cut down on sugar intake.
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Portion Control: To enjoy this cake without overindulging, cut smaller slices and pair them with a balanced meal to help control blood sugar levels.
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Homemade vs. Store-bought: Homemade versions of this cake allow you to have better control over ingredients and portion sizes, making it easier to make healthier choices.
Remember that while this cake is a delicious treat, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, consider consulting a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice.