When it comes to comforting desserts, nothing beats a homemade apple cake, especially one that has a cherished family recipe like
Ingredients
For the Apple Mixture:
– 6-8 Granny Smith apples, cored, peeled, and sliced into thin slices
– 2+ teaspoons cinnamon (adjust to taste)
– 5+ tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
For the Cake Batter:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 3 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Apples**: Begin by mixing the sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar in a large bowl. Toss them well to ensure each slice is coated. Let this mixture stand for a while to allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Make the Cake Batter**: In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly. Then, add the orange juice, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. The batter will be quite heavy, which is perfect for supporting all those delicious apples.
3. **Assemble the Cake**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan to prevent sticking. Begin layering by adding a portion of the batter to the bottom of the pan, followed by a generous layer of the apple mixture. Repeat this process, alternating between batter and apples, and finish with a final layer of apples on top.
4. **Bake**: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Keep an eye on it towards the end, as baking times may vary based on your oven. The cake is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly before removing it from the pan. This cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it plain, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the absolute best apple cake that will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. This family recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the love and memories that come with each slice. So gather your family and friends, share a slice, and create your own cherished moments. Happy baking! 
