This delightful Apple Walnut Raisin Cake is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn. Bursting with juicy apples, crunchy walnuts, and sweet raisins, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Not only is it simple to make, but it also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that will have everyone asking for a slice. Whether served as a dessert or a cozy snack, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Ingredients:
- Eggs: 3 large
- Sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Sunflower Oil: 1/3 cup (80 ml / 2.7 fl oz)
- Flour: 2 cups (270 g)
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Cinnamon Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Walnuts: 1/2 cup (60 g), chopped
- Raisins: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Apples: 2 medium, peeled and diced
- Lemon Juice: Juice of 1/2 lemon
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 170 °C (340 °F). Line a 27 x 18 cm baking pan with baking paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the sunflower oil and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the walnuts, raisins, diced apples, and lemon juice until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar.
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Cooking Tips:
- For added moisture, consider using slightly under-ripe apples.
- Experiment with different nuts, like pecans or almonds, if desired.
- To enhance the flavors, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples are a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C.
- Walnuts provide healthy fats and antioxidants, beneficial for heart health.
- Raisins are rich in iron and potassium, contributing to overall health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
Storage:
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Apple Walnut Raisin Cake is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion—from birthday celebrations to holiday gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone wanting more, and its simple preparation makes it an ideal recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
Conclusion:
This Apple Walnut Raisin Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of home baking. Its sweet and spiced flavor, combined with the crunch of walnuts and the chewiness of raisins, creates a comforting experience with every bite. Share it with friends and family, and watch as they savor each slice. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
- Yes, you can substitute with pears or peaches for a different flavor.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Absolutely! It can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
- What if I don’t have walnuts?
- Feel free to use any nuts you have on hand or omit them entirely for a nut-free cake.
- Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
- You can replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based oil.
- Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
- Yes, you can decrease the sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet cake.
- How can I make the cake more flavorful?
- Add spices like nutmeg or cloves for an extra kick!
- What type of apples are best for baking?
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work well due to their firmness and flavor.
- Can I add frosting to this cake?
- Yes, cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze would complement it beautifully.
- How do I know when the cake is done?
- It’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan; just adjust the baking time as needed.