Aunt Kathi’s Fresh Apple Cake

🍰 Aunt Kathi’s Fresh Apple Cake 🍏

History:
Aunt Kathi’s Fresh Apple Cake is a beloved family recipe that has been passed down through generations. It’s a delightful dessert that captures the essence of home-baked goodness. The exact origin of this recipe is unknown, but it has been a cherished part of family gatherings and celebrations for many years.

Components:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 4 cups of peeled, cored, and diced apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Fuji)
• 1 cup of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)
• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this dry mixture aside.

3. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand.

4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until well combined.

6. Gently fold in the diced apples, nuts (if you’re using them), and raisins (if you prefer).

7. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Once done, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Serve this delicious cake as-is or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Aunt Kathi’s Fresh Apple Cake can vary, but it typically takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 45-50 minutes for baking. So, in total, you can expect to spend approximately 1 hour and 15-20 minutes from start to finish. Keep in mind that the time may vary slightly depending on your experience in the kitchen and the specific equipment you use.

Enjoy baking this delightful family recipe, and I hope you find it as comforting and delicious as many others have throughout the years! 🍏🍰😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aunt Kathi’s Fresh Apple Cake. Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 325
• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 54mg
• Sodium: 316mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 53g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 35g
• Protein: 3g

Health Information:

1. Apples: Apples are a good source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients like vitamin C. They can aid in digestion and contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially helping with weight management.

2. Nuts (Optional): If you include nuts like pecans or walnuts, they add healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, nuts are calorie-dense, so consume them in moderation.

3. Raisins (Optional): Raisins are a natural source of sweetness and provide dietary fiber, antioxidants, and some essential nutrients. Be mindful of portion size due to their natural sugars.

4. Moderation: While Aunt Kathi’s Fresh Apple Cake contains some nutritious ingredients like apples, it’s still a dessert with added sugar and butter. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

5. Portion Control: Controlling portion sizes is important to manage calorie intake. Consider cutting the cake into smaller slices to help with portion control.

6. Variations: You can make this cake slightly healthier by reducing sugar, using whole wheat flour, and cutting down on butter. Experiment with healthier ingredient substitutions if you’re looking to reduce calories and fat.

Remember, while this cake is a delicious treat, it’s best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of a daily diet for those who are mindful of their calorie and sugar intake.