🍰 Aunt Mary’s Apple Cake 🍏
History:
Aunt Mary’s Apple Cake is a beloved classic, passed down through generations. It’s a heartwarming dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just to enjoy a slice with a cup of tea. This recipe has been cherished in many families, and its origins might be traced back to homey, old-fashioned American kitchens.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 4 cups of peeled, cored, and chopped apples (usually, Granny Smith or other tart varieties work well)
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional, typically walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this dry mixture aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes a few minutes.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Gradually blend the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; don’t overmix.
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Gently fold in the chopped apples, nuts (if using), and raisins (if using). The apples should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread it out evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the cake is golden brown.
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Once done, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack.
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Slice and serve your Aunt Mary’s Apple Cake, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation time typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
- Baking time varies but usually around 45-50 minutes.
- Allow additional time for cooling before serving.
Enjoy this heartwarming dessert with its rich history and delightful blend of flavors! 🥮😊
🍏 Aunt Mary’s Apple Cake Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🍰
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Based on 12 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 285 kcal
- Total Fat: About 12g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 5g
- Cholesterol: Around 50mg
- Sodium: Approximately 225mg
- Total Carbohydrates: About 44g
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3g
- Sugars: Around 24g
- Protein: Approximately 3g
Health Information:
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Apples: The primary ingredient in this cake, apples, are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. They are known to support heart health, aid in digestion, and help regulate blood sugar.
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Cinnamon: Cinnamon, a key spice in the cake, is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help lower blood sugar levels and improve heart health.
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Nuts: If you choose to add nuts, they provide healthy fats, protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. They can be beneficial for heart health and overall well-being.
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Raisins: Raisins, if used, add natural sweetness to the cake. They contain iron, potassium, and antioxidants, and may support digestive health.
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Moderation: While Aunt Mary’s Apple Cake is a delightful treat, it’s essential to enjoy it in moderation due to its sugar and fat content. If you’re concerned about the cake’s nutritional profile, consider reducing sugar and using healthier fat alternatives.
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Serving Size: Pay attention to portion size. Smaller servings can help you control your calorie and sugar intake.
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Customization: You can make this cake a bit healthier by using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar content if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Remember, this cake is a delicious indulgence, and incorporating it into a balanced diet is key to enjoying it without compromising your health goals. 😊🍏🍰
