Introduction:
Apple and Raisin Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that blends the natural sweetness of apples with the rich, chewy texture of raisins. This cake is moist and full of flavor, thanks to the combination of fresh apples, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a dessert at a family gathering. With its tender crumb and irresistible aroma, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
1 cup raisins
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
For the Optional Glaze:
½ cup powdered sugar
1-2 teaspoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Apples and Raisins:
In a small bowl, toss the chopped apples and raisins with a little flour (about 1 tablespoon) to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake while baking. Set them aside.
Make the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or hand whisk.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Fold in Apples and Raisins:
Gently fold the apple and raisin mixture into the cake batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the cake is golden brown. Check the cake around 40 minutes and cover it with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
Cool the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for an extra sweet touch.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and serve the cake as-is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Description:
This Apple and Raisin Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs the tartness of fresh apples with the sweet chewiness of raisins. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg give it a comforting, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall or any time of year. The cake itself is soft and moist, while the apples add a burst of freshness, making every bite a treat. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a glaze, this cake is a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season.
Tips:
Choosing Apples: Use firm apples that hold up well when baked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These varieties provide the right balance of tartness and texture.
Raisin Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, currants, or chopped dried apricots for a different flavor.
Moisture Level: If you prefer a slightly more moist cake, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of milk or even a tablespoon of applesauce.
Topping Ideas: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch. You can also sprinkle the cake with cinnamon sugar before baking for a sweet, crunchy top.
Variations:
Spiced Apple and Raisin Cake: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger or cloves for an extra layer of spice to the cake.
Apple and Raisin Cake with Streusel: Top the cake with a crumbly streusel topping made from butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon before baking.
Vegan Apple and Raisin Cake: Replace the butter with a non-dairy alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) instead of regular eggs.
Gluten-Free Apple and Raisin Cake: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
Correction:
Batter Consistency: If the batter seems too thick, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. You want a thick batter, but it should still be scoopable and not too dry.
Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. This can make the cake dense instead of light and airy.
Enjoy
This Apple and Raisin Cake is a fantastic treat that brings together the flavors of fall in every bite. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, spiced, and fruity, making it a hit at any gathering or a lovely dessert to enjoy with family. Serve it fresh out of the oven, or let it cool for a few hours to let the flavors fully meld. Enjoy!