Name: Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 15
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cake:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp Baking Soda; ¾ tsp sea salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp ground cloves; 4 cups apples; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup light-brown sugar; For Brown Sugar Sauce:; ½ cup unsalted butter; 2 large eggs; ½ cup pecans; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup light-brown sugar; ¼ cup milk; ¼ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp vanilla extract

This old-fashioned warm apple cake is a delightful treat, reminiscent of grandma's kitchen. The sweet and spicy aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mingling with the scent of fresh apples baking will fill your home with warmth. Topped with a rich brown sugar sauce and crunchy pecans, this cake is a heartwarming dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake Recipe

Most of the ingredients are common pantry items like flour, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and granulated sugar. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provide the classic spiced flavor. Fresh apples are a key ingredient - choose a variety that's good for baking like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Unsalted butter is preferable for controlling the salt level in the cake and the brown sugar sauce. Light-brown sugar, used in both the cake and sauce, has a rich, caramel-like flavor. The addition of pecans gives a crunchy texture contrast.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake

Flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure.

Baking powder and Baking soda: Acts as leavening agents, helping the cake rise.

Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors.

Ground cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves: These spices give the cake its warm, comforting flavor.

Apples: Adds natural sweetness and moistness to the cake.

Lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a slight tang.

Granulated sugar and Light-brown sugar: Sweetens the cake, with the brown sugar adding a hint of molasses flavor.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give the cake its texture.

Pecans: Adds a crunchy contrast to the soft, moist cake.

One reader, Kelby Melton says:

This old-fashioned warm apple cake recipe is a game-changer! The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air as the cake bakes. The brown sugar sauce with pecans is the perfect finishing touch. It's a comforting treat that brings back fond memories. Highly recommended for a cozy evening indulgence!

Kelby Melton

Key Techniques for Crafting a Delicious Apple Cake

How to prepare the cake batter: Mixing the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately before combining them ensures an even distribution of flavors and a smooth batter.

How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If there's batter on the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes before testing again.

How to make the brown sugar sauce: Boiling the mixture of butter, brown sugar, milk, and salt for 1 ½ minutes helps to thicken the sauce and develop a rich, caramelized flavor.

How to serve the cake: Drizzling the warm brown sugar sauce over the apple cake and topping it with pecans adds a delightful finishing touch to the dessert.

How To Make Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cake:

2cupsall-purpose flour
1tspbaking powder
½tspbaking soda
¾tspsea salt,or table salt
2tspground cinnamon
½tspground nutmeg
¼tspground cloves
4cupsapples,peeled, cored and diced into ¼-inch bits
1tbsplemon juice,fresh
1cupgranulated sugar
¼cuplight-brown sugar,packed

For Brown Sugar Sauce:

½cupunsalted butter,softened
2largeeggs
½cuppecans,chopped, for topping (optional)
½cupunsalted butter,diced into 1 tbsp pcs
1cuplight-brown sugar
¼cupmilk
¼tspsea salt,fine, or table salt
½tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Cake:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 13×8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for 20 seconds, set aside. In a separate medium mixing bowl toss apple cubes with lemon juice, set aside.
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment whip together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter until pale and fluffy.
Mix in eggs one at a time. With mixer set on low speed slowly add in flour mixture and mix just until combined. The batter will be really thick.
Add apples and mix just until combined, with the batter still thick. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
Bake in preheated oven for 33 to 38 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out free of batter.
Let cool for about 5 minutes then cut into squares.

Brown Sugar Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, milk, and salt.
Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow to boil for 1 ½ minutes, stirring occasionally.
Let sauce cool slightly. Serve warm with pecans over cake. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Prepare topping around the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking so they’ll both be served warm.
When making the brown sugar sauce, you can add a small extra amount of the ingredients if you like more of a salted caramel or toffee flavor.
We recommend using a blend of tart and sweet apples for this cake. Granny smith, golden delicious, and gala apples are some examples.
As the sauce sits and cools, the brown sugar will begin to crystalize. Simply microwave it in a large microwave-safe bowl for about 1 minute, until it bubbles, then whisk well.

Nutrition

Calories: 318.74kcal
Fat: 15.67g
Saturated Fat: 8.32g
Trans Fat: 0.50g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.82g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.39g
Carbohydrates: 43.13g
Fiber: 1.68g
Sugar: 28.52g
Protein: 3.23g
Cholesterol: 57.74mg
Sodium: 208.77mg
Calcium: 55.24mg
Potassium: 100.41mg
Iron: 1.18mg
Vitamin A: 117.08µg
Vitamin C: 1.78mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Apple Cake Technique

When preparing the apples for this recipe, it's best to choose a variety that holds its shape well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Also, to prevent the apples from browning while you prepare the rest of the batter, toss them in the lemon juice as soon as they're chopped. This not only prevents discoloration but also adds a nice tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Classic Dessert

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure you have everything you need.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly and evenly chop the apples for the cake.

Multi-task: While the cake is baking, prepare the brown sugar sauce to save time in the kitchen.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid wasting time looking for tools and ingredients.

Pre-cut ingredients: Pre-cut the apples and store them in a bowl of water with lemon juice to prevent browning until you're ready to use them.

Set a timer: Use a timer to keep track of baking and cooking times, allowing you to focus on other tasks without worrying about overcooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the cake, while still providing the necessary structure for baking.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Baking soda and cream of tartar can be used in place of baking powder, but the ratio will need to be adjusted as baking soda is more potent.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, but you may need to adjust the quantity to achieve the desired leavening effect.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for sea salt in baking, providing a similar level of saltiness.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with apple pie spice: Apple pie spice can be used as a substitute for ground cinnamon, providing a blend of warm spices that complement the apple flavor.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground mace: Ground mace can be used as a substitute for ground nutmeg, offering a similar warm and aromatic flavor.
ground cloves - Substitute with ground allspice: Ground allspice can be used as a substitute for ground cloves, providing a warm and slightly peppery flavor.
apples - Substitute with pears: Pears can be used as a substitute for apples in this cake, providing a similar texture and sweetness.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a slightly different tangy flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar, adding a hint of caramel flavor to the cake.
light-brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Dark brown sugar can be used as a substitute for light brown sugar, providing a deeper molasses flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the cake.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs, adding moisture and helping to bind the ingredients together in the cake.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used as a substitute for pecans, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunch.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter, providing a similar fat content and texture in the brown sugar sauce.
light-brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for light brown sugar, adding a rich and sweet flavor to the brown sugar sauce.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for milk, providing a slightly nutty flavor to the brown sugar sauce.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can be used as a substitute for sea salt, providing a similar level of saltiness and trace minerals.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used as a substitute for vanilla extract, adding a hint of almond flavor to the cake.

Presentation Ideas for a Warm Apple Cake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the warm apple cake, consider using a minimalist approach to plating. Focus on clean lines and elegant presentation to showcase the rustic charm of the cake.
Incorporate seasonal garnishes: Add a touch of seasonal flair by incorporating cinnamon-dusted apple slices or a sprinkle of edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Opt for sophisticated serveware: Choose porcelain plates or earthenware platters to complement the warm tones of the apple cake and create a visually stunning presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to allow the warm apple cake to take center stage. This will create a visually striking presentation that highlights the beauty of the dessert.
Incorporate a drizzle design: Use a delicate hand to create an artistic drizzle of the brown sugar sauce on the plate, adding a touch of finesse to the overall presentation.
Consider geometric plating: Experiment with geometric shapes and patterns to arrange the warm apple cake and sauce, creating an eye-catching presentation that exudes modern elegance.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider delicately adorning the warm apple cake with edible gold leaf to elevate its visual appeal and add a touch of opulence to the presentation.
Emphasize texture contrast: Pair the warm apple cake with a contrasting element, such as a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream, to add visual interest and elevate the overall dining experience.

Essential Equipment for Making an Old Fashioned Apple Cake

Oven: You will need an oven to bake the warm apple cake.
Baking dish: A 13x8-inch baking dish is required to bake the cake.
Non-stick cooking spray: This will be used to grease the baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
Medium mixing bowl: You will need a medium mixing bowl to combine the dry ingredients for the cake.
Electric stand mixer: An electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment will be used to cream the butter and sugar for the cake batter.
Paddle attachment: This attachment for the electric stand mixer will be used to mix the cake batter.
Saucepan: A medium saucepan will be used to make the brown sugar sauce.
Whisk: A whisk will be used to combine the dry ingredients for the cake.
Spatula: A spatula will be used to spread the cake batter into an even layer in the baking dish.
Knife: A knife will be used to cut the warm apple cake into squares.
Measuring cups and spoons: These will be used to measure and add the ingredients accurately.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon will be used to stir the brown sugar sauce while it boils.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Warm Apple Cake

Allow the apple cake to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store the cake at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
If desired, you can warm up individual slices of the cake in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
The brown sugar sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
If you have leftover sauce, you can also freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Reheating Tips for Leftover Warm Apple Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover old fashioned warm apple cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the apples are tender. This method helps to retain the cake's moisture and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a single slice of the apple cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for about 30-45 seconds, or until it's warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or tough.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior, try reheating the apple cake in a skillet. Melt a small amount of unsalted butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a slice of the cake and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's golden brown and heated through. This method works particularly well if you enjoy a slightly caramelized flavor.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat individual slices of the old fashioned warm apple cake. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of the cake on the toaster oven rack. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through and the edges are slightly crispy.
For a special treat, try serving the reheated apple cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm cake and the cool, creamy topping is simply irresistible. You can also drizzle some extra brown sugar sauce or caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of indulgence.

Interesting Trivia About Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake

The warm apple cake recipe is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a comforting and delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes. This dessert is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It's a great way to use up any extra apples you may have on hand and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Budget-Friendly: Making Warm Apple Cake at Home

This old fashioned warm apple cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as apples, flour, sugar, and butter, are commonly found in most households, making it an affordable option. The use of seasonal apples can further reduce the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. In terms of the overall verdict, I would rate this recipe a solid 8. The warm, comforting flavors and the simple preparation make it a great choice for a delicious and economical dessert.

Is This Old Fashioned Dessert Healthy or Not?

This old-fashioned warm apple cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The cake itself is high in sugar and refined carbohydrates from the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. The brown sugar sauce also contributes to the overall sugar content, along with the addition of butter and milk.

The redeeming qualities of this recipe are the use of apples, which provide some fiber and nutrients, and the inclusion of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which offer some antioxidants and potential health benefits. However, these ingredients alone do not make the recipe healthy.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake and sauce, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
Use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to replace some of the butter in the cake batter
Incorporate more spices, such as ginger or cardamom, for added flavor and potential health benefits
Serve the cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of the brown sugar sauce for a protein-rich, lower-sugar topping
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for healthy fats and extra crunch

Our Editor's Opinion on This Timeless Apple Cake Recipe

The warm apple cake recipe is a delightful blend of comforting spices and sweet, tender apples. The cake's texture is moist and the flavors are well-balanced, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. The addition of the brown sugar sauce with pecans adds a rich and indulgent touch, elevating the overall experience. This recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the delicious flavors of apples and is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese and chives, served in a fluffy cloud-like mound.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly charred and drizzled with a balsamic glaze, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a tangy honey mustard vinaigrette, topped with crunchy bacon crumbles for an irresistible combination of textures and tastes.

Similar Dessert Recipes to Try

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These garlic parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. The crispy Brussels sprouts are coated in a savory garlic and parmesan mixture that will have you coming back for seconds.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: This honey mustard glazed salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for a special dinner at home. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs beautifully with the tender and flaky salmon, creating a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress.

Appetizers and Entrées to Serve with This Classic Dessert

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable savory stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are the perfect way to start off any meal. Lightly fried to golden perfection, these fritters are packed with flavor and make for a delightful appetizer option.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce: For a light and refreshing main course, consider grilling salmon and serving it with a tangy lemon dill sauce. The combination of the smoky grilled flavor with the bright and herby sauce is sure to impress your guests.

Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil: Indulge in a creamy and flavorful mushroom risotto, elevated with a drizzle of luxurious truffle oil. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the aromatic truffle oil create a decadent and satisfying dish.

Why trust this Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a tried and tested classic, using fresh apples to ensure a burst of natural sweetness in every bite. The warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen. The brown sugar sauce adds a decadent touch, complementing the moist apple cake perfectly. Trust the combination of butter and pecans to elevate the flavors and textures. With a balance of flavors and foolproof steps, this recipe guarantees a delightful dessert experience.

If you enjoyed this Old Fashioned Warm Apple Cake Recipe, head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum to share your experience, ask questions, or discuss variations on this classic dessert.

FAQ:

Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of apple for this recipe. I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.

Can I substitute the pecans with a different type of nut?

Of course! You can easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts based on your preference or dietary restrictions.

Can I use salted butter for the brown sugar sauce?

Yes, you can use salted butter for the brown sugar sauce, but I recommend reducing the added salt in the sauce by half to balance the flavors.

Can I omit the brown sugar sauce?

While the brown sugar sauce adds a delicious caramel flavor, you can certainly omit it if you prefer a less sweet dessert. The cake is delicious on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.