Heavenly Apple Cake

By Veronica • September 27, 2009 • 0 Comments

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Author Notes: Though not even approaching being eligible for a beauty contest, this cake seems to be irresistible. It stays fresh and gooey for days (that is if there's any left) and it's really very simple. The recipe originated in a community cookbook that I used regularly for years. The cake was always delicious but, over the years I've changed things--NO nuts--raisins--raisins soaked in Rum--but now I've settled on adding dates soaked in Apple Brandy (or Calvados if you're feeling flush!) Sometimes I substitute brown sugar for half the white sugar. As I say, NOT pretty, but well worth it. - Veronica

Serves 12-16

1/2-3/4 cup chopped dates
1/2-3/4 cup Apple Brandy (or Calvados)
2 cups unbleached, all purpose flour
2 cups white sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3/4 teaspoons salt
4 cups slightly tart Apples: peeled, cored and roughly chopped
1/2 cup melted sweet butter
2 eggs, lightly beaten
icing sugar for decoration

About one hour before starting to bake, place the dates in a small bowl and cover with the Apple Brandy. Stir from time to time and if they get too "tight", just add more brandy!
Preheat oven to 325. Using butter, grease a baking pan (approx. 13x9x2)
Into a large bowl sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
Add the chopped apples, dates, melted butter and the eggs. This will be a very heavy, thick batter but don't worry--just be sure to mix it well.
Spread in the prepared pan, place on a rack in center of the oven and bake for 1 hour. Test with a skewer--if it comes out still a bit gooey, bake for another 5-10 minutes. You'll know when it's done. It will be a nice dark tan color and will spring back to a light touch.
Remove from oven, let cool a bit. This is delicious hot, warm or cold. As I mentioned, this cake isn't a beauty queen so should be plated in the kitchen! I sprinkle each serving with icing sugar.