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- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably tart apples like Granny Smith)
- ¾ cup walnuts, chopped
- ¾ cup raisins
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist)
How to Make Apple, Walnut, and Raisin Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or you can use a loaf pan or an 8×8 square pan for a different shape). If you prefer, you can line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this bowl aside for later.
Step 3: Beat the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and oil until combined.
Step 4: Add the Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients
Stir the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) into the wet mixture. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients in batches, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples, Walnuts, and Raisins
Once the batter is smooth, gently fold in the diced apples, walnuts, and raisins. The apples should be evenly distributed throughout the batter, and the raisins should be well incorporated.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Depending on your oven and the type of pan you use, the baking time may vary, so be sure to check.
Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storing
Once your Apple, Walnut, and Raisin Cake is completely cooled, you can serve it as is, or you can dust it with powdered sugar for a little extra touch. If you want to take it to the next level, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s also delicious with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of cinnamon.
This cake stores well at room temperature for about 3-4 days. To keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. If you want to store it even longer, this cake freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Why This Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion
This Apple, Walnut, and Raisin Cake is ideal for a variety of occasions:
- Holiday gatherings: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas, this cake brings the cozy flavors of fall into your home.
- Afternoon tea: Pair a slice of this cake with a hot cup of tea for a relaxing, comforting treat.
- Gifts for friends or neighbors: Pack a few slices in a beautiful box or tin and share this homemade delight with loved ones.
- Weeknight dessert: Sometimes, you just need a simple dessert to wrap up a busy day. This cake is easy to make, and you’ll love the comforting flavors it offers.
Conclusion: A Slice of Fall in Every Bite
Apple, Walnut, and Raisin Cake is everything you want in a fall dessert: moist, flavorful, and packed with all the autumn ingredients we love. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon at home or sharing it with friends and family, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm, sweet, and comforting.
So, next time you find yourself with a basket of fresh apples, don’t hesitate to bake up this simple yet indulgent treat. It’s bound to become a favorite, and one that you’ll make year after year as part of your fall tradition.
Happy baking! 🍏🍂
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