π°πππ°π Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake ππ°πππ°
What is it?
Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake is a delectable dessert that combines the flavors of sweet apples, plump raisins, crunchy nuts, and aromatic spices. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season when apples and spices are in abundance.
History:
The origins of Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake can be traced back to traditional American and European baking. Cakes combining apples, raisins, nuts, and spices have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations across different cultures. In America, apple cake recipes became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries when apples were a readily available and versatile ingredient.
Components:
To make a delicious Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake, you’ll need the following components:
- Apples: Usually peeled, cored, and diced.
- Raisins: Sweet and chewy, they add natural sweetness.
- Nuts: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that warm, cozy flavor.
- Flour, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and salt: These are the basic cake ingredients.
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delightful cake:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 Β½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, Β½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ΒΌ teaspoon of ground cloves, and a pinch of salt.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 Β½ cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add Eggs: Beat in 3 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring they’re well incorporated.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Fold in Apples, Raisins, and Nuts: Gently fold in 2 cups of diced apples, 1 cup of raisins, and 1 cup of chopped nuts.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar, drizzle with caramel sauce, or enjoy it as is.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes for mixing and assembling the ingredients. Baking time is around 40-45 minutes, and then you’ll need additional time for the cake to cool. In total, you should allow about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
This delightful cake is a wonderful way to savor the flavors of the season, combining the sweetness of apples and raisins with the warmth of spices and the crunch of nuts. Enjoy! ππ°ππ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 280-350 calories per serving (depending on portion size)
- Total Fat: 12-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
- Cholesterol: 45-60 milligrams
- Sodium: 150-200 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 20-25 grams
- Protein: 4-5 grams
Health Information:
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Moderate Calories: Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake is moderately calorie-dense due to the sugar, butter, and nuts used in the recipe. It’s a dessert, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
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Fat Content: The cake contains a moderate amount of fat, with some saturated fat from butter. While fat is an essential nutrient, it’s important to consume it in moderation.
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Sugar: The cake contains added sugars from both granulated sugar and raisins. Be mindful of your sugar intake, as excessive sugar consumption can have health implications.
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Protein: While the cake does contain some protein, it’s not a significant source of this nutrient. Consider pairing it with a protein-rich snack or meal to create a more balanced overall diet.
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Fiber: The cake provides a small amount of dietary fiber, mainly from the apples and a bit from the flour. Fiber is essential for digestive health.
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Portion Control: To enjoy this dessert while maintaining a balanced diet, practice portion control. Smaller servings can help reduce calorie and sugar intake.
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Enjoy in Moderation: Apple Raisin Nut Spice Cake is a delightful indulgence, but it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and not as a daily staple. Pair it with healthier choices like fruits and vegetables to ensure a well-rounded diet.
Remember that the specific nutrition content may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to refer to the nutrition labels on specific products and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
