Jewish Apple Cake is a traditional dessert that is moist, dense, and packed with layers of cinnamon-sugar-coated apples. This cake is typically made without any dairy, making it suitable for kosher meals, especially those following dietary laws where dairy and meat are kept separate. With its rustic charm, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or as a comforting dessert any time of the year. The combination of sweet apples and the subtle spiciness of cinnamon make this cake a timeless favorite, offering a warm, nostalgic flavor that pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 5 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 5 tbsp sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or bundt pan.
- Prepare the Apples: In a medium bowl, combine the 5 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Toss the sliced apples in this mixture until evenly coated. Set aside.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs, oil, orange juice, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour 1/3 of the batter into the prepared pan, then layer 1/3 of the cinnamon-coated apples over the batter. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of apples on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 75–90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy the cake as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream!