The Apple Hill Cake is a perfect autumn treat. It is inspired by the orchards of Placerville. This cake mixes fresh apples with lovely spices for a comforting snack. It’s great for parties or family dinners.
With a 4.50-star rating from 262 reviews, it’s loved by many. People enjoy this easy apple recipe for its seasonal flavours. Serving 12, the cake celebrates the tradition of apple picking.
This recipe will show you how to pick the best ingredients and improve your baking. It’s designed for anyone who loves to bake. Whether you’re skilled or a beginner, this autumn dessert will be a favourite.
The Apple Hill Cake is a cherished dessert, sparking memories of family traditions. It features fresh apples picked in autumn, bringing the season’s spirit. The warm spices add a cozy feel, loved at gatherings.
This apple hill cake combines rich flavours and connects generations. Apples provide natural sweetness, while the soft texture invites a deeper look into its creation. It’s about sharing family cooking secrets.
Making this cake takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an hour to cook. It’s great for bringing people together. For those interested, check out tasty recipes that celebrate the art of baking and sharing.
Start by choosing the right ingredients for a delicious Apple Hill Cake. Fresh apples are key to its taste and structure. The type of apple you select can change your cake’s final taste. Let’s look at the main ingredients you need for this tasty apple cake.
Fresh Apples: The Key Ingredient
Fresh apples are the heart of this cake. Choose types like Gala, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp. These apples keep their shape when baked, making the cake moist and well-formed. You’ll need about 4 cups of thinly sliced apples, which is around 6 medium apples.
Dry Ingredients Needed
Dry ingredients are crucial for the cake’s texture and taste. You will need:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon kosher salt
These ingredients work together well. Flour adds structure, while baking soda helps it rise. Cinnamon brings a warm spice that’s perfect for apple desserts.
Optional Additions for Enhanced Flavour
You can add more ingredients for extra taste. Consider:
Pecans or walnuts for crunch
Vanilla extract for deeper flavour
A touch of ground ginger or cardamom for extra warmth
Adding these can make your cake more special. Fresh apples and the right dry ingredients make your apple cake a hit!
How to Make the Apple Hill Cake
Making an Apple Hill Cake is a delightful journey. It starts with simple, effective apple cake instructions. The method mixes the right ingredients with precise baking steps. You end up with a moist and flavourful cake. Here are the key steps to make this autumn treat.
Preparation Steps
First, prepare the apples. You need about 4 cups of thinly sliced apples, which is roughly six mediums. Peel and dice them to keep a consistent texture in the cake. Then, mix these apples with eggs, avocado oil, and a blend of coconut cane sugar and molasses. This gives the cake a sweet base.
Next, mix the dry ingredients in a different bowl. You’ll need 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg, plus 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix these carefully. Then, gently blend the wet and dry parts without over-mixing. This keeps the cake moist. For a gluten-free cake, use King Arthur’s Paleo Baking Flour instead of regular flour.
Baking Instructions
When the batter is ready, grease a 9-by-13 inch pan well. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Spread the batter in the pan and smooth the top. Bake it for 50 minutes to an hour. Check if it’s done with a toothpick—it should come out clean.
Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar for an extra touch. This makes the cake look even better. Serve it warm to capture the essence of autumn. Try baking this cake for special memories!
Best Apples for the Apple Hill Cake Recipe
Choosing the right apples can really change how your Apple Hill Cake tastes and feels. A great apple selection combines different types of apples. For example, Granny Smith apples add a nice tangy touch that balances the sweet taste of the cake. Meanwhile, Gala apples add a gentle sweetness that boosts the overall flavour.
The mix of these apples creates a perfect balance of flavours, making the dessert special. When we tested the recipe, using four cups of chopped Granny Smith and Gala apples made the cake moist and tasty. This balance is key for the best results.
If you’re looking to try something different, Pink Lady and Honeycrisp apples are good options. They have unique flavours that add a new twist to the classic apple taste. Bakers suggest trying various apples to see how they change the cake.
Using different apples not only improves the taste but also makes the cake look more appealing. The bright colours of various apples can make your dessert stand out.
Apple Variety
Flavour Profile
Baking Characteristics
Granny Smith
Sharp, tart
Holds shape well, adds a tangy contrast
Gala
Sweet, floral
Softens nicely, boosts overall sweetness
Pink Lady
Tart with sweetness
Maintains structure, enhances texture and flavour
Honeycrisp
Sweet, crisp
Remains firm, adds juiciness and flavour
Tips for Storing and Serving the Cake
To make sure your apple cake stays tasty, you’ve got to store it right. Here’s how you keep it fresh and make it look good when serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Wrap leftover apple cake in plastic or beeswax wrap to keep it moist. It stays good at room temperature for up to four days. If you put it in the fridge, it will last 2-3 days. For keeping it longer, wrap it snugly in plastic and foil and freeze it. You can freeze it for three months without losing its yummy taste.
Serving Suggestions
To make your apple cake even more enjoyable, try these serving tips:
Warm slices of cake go great with vanilla ice cream.
Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
A dusting of powdered sugar makes it look fancy.
Drinks like coffee or spiced cider really complete the treat. These serving ideas make your apple cake a hit at any event or just a family meal.
Storage Method
Duration
Notes
Room Temperature
Up to 4 days
Covered with plastic wrap or beeswax wrap
Refrigerator
2-3 days
Best for cakes with frosting
Freezer
Up to 3 months
Tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil
Conclusion
The Apple Hill Cake recipe is a delightful mix of simplicity and warm flavours. It owes its origins to Jewish food traditions and Chef Robert Bennett of Classic Bakery. This cake shines during festive times like Rosh Hashanah. It’s dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy its delicious taste, no matter their diet.
Anyone can make this cake, thanks to its easy recipe. It’s packed with fresh Granny Smith apples and a touch of cinnamon. It’s perfect for family gatherings, bringing joy as you share it. You can top your slice with whipped cream, ice cream, or salted caramel. These additions make eating this cake a memorable experience, year after year.
The Apple Hill Cake is more than just a dessert. It’s a way to celebrate the best of the season with loved ones. Give this recipe a try. You might find it’s the best part of autumn!
FAQ
What type of apples should I use in an Apple Hill Cake?
Gala, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp are the best apples for this cake. They give great flavour and keep their texture when baked. This makes the cake even better.
How long should the Apple Hill Cake be baked?
Bake the cake at about 170°C (340°F) for 50 minutes to an hour. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the centre. It should come out clean.
Can I customise the Apple Hill Cake recipe?
Yes, you can make it your own by adding things like pecans or walnuts. A bit of vanilla or spices like ginger can also boost the flavour.
What is the best way to store leftover Apple Hill Cake?
Keep the leftover cake covered at room temperature for a day. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for a few days. Or freeze it by wrapping in plastic and aluminium foil for up to a year.
What are some serving suggestions for the Apple Hill Cake?
Enjoy it warm with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce. A dusting of powdered sugar makes it pretty. Coffee or spiced cider goes nicely with it.
How do the spices in the Apple Hill Cake enhance its flavour?
Spices like cinnamon add warmth and depth. Ginger or cardamom can also be added. They enhance the apples’ sweetness, making a delicious autumn treat.
