Classic Jewish Apple Cake Delight
This Classic Jewish Apple Cake Delight is a cherished dessert that embodies the warmth of family gatherings with its moist and dense texture. Made with fresh slices of Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Macintosh, or Gala apples, each bite is a symphony of flavors enhanced by the aromatic notes of cinnamon and sugar. The rich batter combines eggs, oils, and a hint of orange juice, creating a delightful balance with the sweetness of brown sugar. Topped with a sprinkle of walnuts or pecans, this cake not only has a beautiful appearance but is also perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday feast or a cozy afternoon tea.
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Peeled Thinly Sliced Apples
6 cups (about 3 large apples or 6 small apples)
Granulated Sugar
1 cup (for apple mixture)
Ground Cinnamon
4 teaspoons (for apple mixture)
All-Purpose Flour
3 cups (sifted)
Baking Powder
1 tablespoon
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Large Eggs
4
Granulated Sugar
1 1/2 cups (for batter)
Light Brown Sugar
1/2 cup
Vegetable Oil
1 cup
Orange Juice
1/2 cup
Vanilla Extract
2 1/2 teaspoons
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans
1 cup (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a tube pan.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 4 teaspoons of cinnamon. Toss until apples are evenly coated and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3
In a separate medium bowl, mix together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt; set this dry mixture aside.
4
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs together with 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar and the light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
5
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with the oil. Mix until just combined, then stir in the orange juice and vanilla extract, beating for an additional minute until smooth.
6
Spoon one-third of the batter into the bottom of the prepared tube pan, spreading it evenly.
7
Layer one-third of the apple mixture over the batter, sprinkling on some chopped walnuts or pecans if using.
8
Repeat the layering process two more times: batter, apples, nuts, until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of apple slices and walnuts on top.
9
Drizzle any remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture from the apples over the top for added flavor and sweetness.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
11
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 20-25 minutes before carefully turning it out onto the rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this cake a Classic Jewish Apple Cake?
This cake is considered 'classic' and 'Jewish' because it uses oil and orange juice instead of dairy like butter or milk, making it parve and suitable for meat-based meals in kosher dietary traditions.
Which types of apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Macintosh, or Gala apples are recommended for their ability to hold shape and provide a balanced flavor.
How many apples do I need to make 6 cups?
You will generally need about 3 large apples or 6 small apples to yield 6 cups of thinly sliced fruit.
What is the recommended baking temperature?
The cake should be baked in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What type of pan should I use for this cake?
A tube pan is the traditional choice for this recipe to ensure the dense batter bakes evenly.
How do I prepare the tube pan?
You should grease and flour the tube pan thoroughly to prevent the moist cake from sticking.
How long does the cake take to bake?
The bake time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
How do I know when the Jewish Apple Cake is finished baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I omit the nuts from this recipe?
Yes, the chopped walnuts or pecans are optional and can be left out if you have an allergy or preference.
Why is orange juice used in the batter?
Orange juice adds moisture and a subtle citrus note while keeping the recipe dairy-free.
How should I layer the batter and apples?
Spoon one-third of the batter into the pan, then one-third of the apples and nuts; repeat this process two more times.
Does the flour need to be sifted?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 3 cups of sifted all-purpose flour for the best texture.
How many servings does this cake provide?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
How much cinnamon is required for the apple mixture?
You will need 4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to coat the apples.
Can I use vegetable oil for this recipe?
Yes, 1 cup of vegetable oil is the standard fat used in this batter.
How long should the cake cool before removing it from the pan?
Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 20 to 25 minutes before turning it out.
What type of sugar is used in the batter?
The batter uses a combination of 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/2 cup light brown sugar.
Should the apples be peeled?
Yes, the recipe calls for peeled and thinly sliced apples.
What is the texture of this Jewish Apple Cake?
This cake is known for being moist, dense, and rich.
How much vanilla extract should I add?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Yes, the recipe allows for either chopped walnuts or pecans.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
How many eggs are in the batter?
The recipe requires 4 large eggs.
What should I do with the leftover cinnamon-sugar from the apple bowl?
Drizzle any remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture from the apples over the top of the cake before baking.
What leavening agent is used?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of baking powder.
Can I use Gala apples for this cake?
Yes, Gala apples are listed as a suitable variety for this recipe.
When do I add the dry ingredients to the mix?
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the beaten egg and sugar mixture, alternating with the oil.
How much salt is included in the dry mixture?
The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Is this cake good for holidays?
Absolutely, it is described as perfect for holiday feasts and family gatherings.
Can I use Golden Delicious apples?
Yes, Golden Delicious apples are an excellent choice for this cake.