Welcome the sweetness of the New Year with a delightful twist on tradition! This Apple and Honey Cake for Rosh Hashanah is not just a dessert; it's a heartfelt celebration of flavor and festivity. With its moist, tender crumb and the warm embrace of cinnamon and honey, this cake promises to be the star of your holiday table. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes, enticing your family and friends to gather around. Whether you're looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Read on to discover how to create this scrumptious cake that embodies the spirit of Rosh Hashanah!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups grated apples
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan with butter or cooking spray, and lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk the dry ingredients until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate medium bowl, combine the vegetable oil, honey, and eggs. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully integrated.
- Peel and grate fresh apples using a box grater or food processor. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated apples using a clean kitchen towel to prevent the cake from becoming too wet.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
- Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, drizzle additional honey over the top of the cake or dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness and presentation.
- Slice and serve at room temperature. This cake is perfect for Rosh Hashanah celebrations and pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, seasonal apples for the best flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for this cake.
- Grate with Care: When grating your apples, be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent your cake from becoming soggy.
- Mix Gently: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!
- Customize Your Nuts: If you're a fan of texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or even pecans for a delightful crunch. Just be sure to toast them lightly for an extra depth of flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating it's perfectly baked.
- Presentation Matters: For an elegant touch, drizzle extra honey over the cooled cake or dust it with powdered sugar just before serving. It adds a beautiful finish and extra sweetness!
- Serve at Room Temperature: This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine. Pair it with a warm cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 422kcal
Carbohydrates: 70g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 26mg
