apple and raisin cake

Apple and Raisin Cake: A Moist, Spiced Delight

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Imagine a soft, tender cake filled with chunks of sweet apples, plump raisins, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This Apple and Raisin Cake is a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it with a cup of tea, as a dessert, or even for breakfast, this cake is sure to delight everyone.

What is this Recipe?

This recipe features a moist, spiced cake packed with fresh apples and raisins. The combination of warm spices and natural sweetness makes it a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Moist and Flavorful: Packed with juicy apples and sweet raisins.
  • Warm and Spiced: Cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy, aromatic touch.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
  • Versatile: Perfect for dessert, tea time, or even breakfast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this moist and flavorful cake. I’ve also included substitutions and variations to suit different dietary preferences:

For the Cake Batter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour: Use gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds lightness to the cake.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For warm, spiced flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and warmth.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: For richness and moisture.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
  • 2 large eggs: Adds structure and moisture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Keeps the cake moist and tender.

For the Apple and Raisin Filling

  • 2 medium apples, peeled and diced: Use firm, sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
  • 1/2 cup raisins: Soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up, then drain.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds brightness.

For the Optional Glaze

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For sweetness.
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream: To thin the glaze.
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze’s flavor.

How to Make Apple and Raisin Cake

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious, spiced cake:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple and Raisin Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Add the raisins and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples and Raisins

  1. Gently fold the apple and raisin mixture into the cake batter until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
  2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Slice and serve the cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Apple and Raisin Cake turns out perfectly every time:

  1. Choose the Right Apples: Use firm, sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.
  2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
  3. Soak the Raisins: Soaking the raisins in warm water plumps them up and prevents them from drying out during baking.
  4. Customize the Spices: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
  5. Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it covered at room temperature.
  6. Freeze for Later: Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  7. Add Nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
  8. Serve Warm: This cake is especially delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.