Apple and walnut cake, vegan

Apple and Walnut Vegan Cake: A Fall Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 12

In this recipe, I invite you to explore a delicious and comforting vegan cake that brings the flavors of autumn straight into your kitchen. This cake is a perfect blend of juicy apples and crunchy walnuts, topped with a sweet glaze that adds an extra layer of flavor. The best part is that it requires no animal-derived ingredients, making it ideal for fasting days or for those who prefer a vegetarian lifestyle.

The history of apple cakes is long, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Apples, a common ingredient in desserts, have been used for centuries due to their natural sweetness and crunchy texture. In this recipe, I've added a personal touch by using a larger quantity of apples, making the cake even moister and more flavorful.

Ingredients

Cake batter:
- 4 cups grated apples (about 1100 g)
- 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts (170 g)
- 3 cups sugar (900 g) – adjust according to the sweetness of the apples
- 3 cups flour (660 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (10 g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 g)

Syrup:
- 20 tablespoons sugar (granulated)
- 20 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (heaping)
- 2 tablespoons oil

Pan size: 27/37 cm

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the apples, removing the cores and seeds. Wash them well and then grate them. If the apples are sweet, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe; otherwise, keep the 3 cups of sugar. Meanwhile, break the walnuts and chop them coarsely.

2. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential to ensure even baking of the cake.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the batter: grated apples, walnuts, sugar, flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Use your hands to mix the ingredients well, ensuring everything is blended together. It's important to achieve a uniform mixture for a pleasant cake texture.

4. Preparing the pan: Grease the pan with oil to prevent the cake from sticking. This is a crucial step as it will help you easily remove the cake after baking.

5. Baking the cake: Pour the prepared mixture into the greased pan and level the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the cake turns golden and passes the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

6. Preparing the syrup: In a saucepan, mix all the syrup ingredients: sugar, water, cocoa powder, and oil. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Once the syrup starts to boil, let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.

7. Adding the syrup: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Pour the hot syrup evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps well into the batter. This will add extra moisture and sweetness to the cake.

8. Cooling and slicing: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, then cut it into squares. Serve it plain or with a few walnut pieces on top for a more appealing presentation.

Helpful tips

- If you want to add a touch of originality, try sprinkling a bit of vanilla or almond extract into the batter mixture. This will bring a delightful aroma to the cake.
- The apple and walnut cake is excellent when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of plant-based cream, providing a pleasant contrast between warm and cold.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness; it will keep well for several days.

Nutritional benefits

Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, contributing to good heart health. Walnuts provide essential proteins, healthy fats, and minerals, making them a beneficial ingredient for a balanced diet. This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings valuable nutrients to your diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I substitute the walnuts with another ingredient?
Absolutely! You can use almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

2. How can I adjust the sweetness of the cake?
If the apples are very sweet, reduce the amount of sugar. Start with 2 cups and adjust to taste.

3. Can I add other fruits to the mixture?
Yes, you can add raisins or grated pears for a variety of flavors.

Now, with this recipe for apple and walnut vegan cake, you are ready to impress everyone with a simple yet delicious dessert. Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors of autumn!