Sweeten Your Holiday: The Best Rosh Hashanah Apple Cake Recipe Spiced with Cinnamon

I find myself craving that sweet, comforting scent of apples and cinnamon baking for the holidays, and this Rosh Hashanah apple cake recipe spiced with cinnamon truly delivers. The aroma alone is enough to get everyone excited for a sweet new year. It’s perfect for busy parents wanting a special homemade treat, or anyone looking for a simple yet impressive dessert that’s family-friendly and wonderfully moist. This Rosh Hashanah apple cake recipe spiced with cinnamon is a cherished family favorite, guaranteed to get rave reviews.

rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon

Key Ingredients and Flavor Foundations for Your Apple Cake

Essential ingredients with function and flavor role.

  • Apples: 4-5 cups (about 4-5 medium) peeled, cored, and diced. Use Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness and texture. Essential for a moist Rosh Hashanah apple cake.
  • Cinnamon: 2 tsp ground cinnamon, plus a touch of ¼ tsp ground nutmeg. These are the heart of our spiced flavor.
  • Oil: 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil if that’s what’s handy). Using oil keeps the cake incredibly moist and aligns with traditional Rosh Hashanah pareve baking.
  • Flour: 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, providing the cake’s core structure.
  • Sugars: 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar and 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar, for balanced sweetness and moisture.
  • Eggs: 3 large eggs, binding the ingredients and adding richness.
  • Vanilla: 1 tsp vanilla extract, enhancing all the sweet and spice notes.
  • Leavening: 1 ½ tsp baking soda and ½ tsp salt, to ensure a light, tender crumb.

Smart swaps and add-ins that adapt to diets or preferences.

  • For a truly pareve option, ensure you use a dairy-free milk if any glaze is added later.
  • Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor if desired.

Seasonal, regional, or freshness notes for rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon.

  • Choose firm, blemish-free apples for the best flavor and texture in your spiced apple cake. Fresh, seasonal apples make all the difference.

Cooking Method Made Simple: Baking Your Rosh Hashanah Apple Cake

Step-by-step instructions with timing and sensory cues.

Prep & Mix

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) until it feels warm and ready, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, and 2 tsp ground cinnamon until well combined and light. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Beat these wet ingredients for about 2 minutes until creamy and pale.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently with a spatula until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake.
  5. Fold in the 4-5 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples. I always make sure my apples are diced fairly small, about ½-inch, so they distribute well and keep every bite moist without making the cake watery.

Bake & Cool

  1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch pan. The batter will be thick and fragrant with cinnamon.
  2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
  3. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes; the cake will feel firm to the touch. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing steam to escape and preventing a soggy bottom.

Quick variations for dietary patterns.

  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in the same quantity. This is a family-friendly adjustment.
  • Nut-Free: Omit nuts or substitute with pumpkin seeds for crunch if preferred.

Troubleshooting tips for common issues.

  • Cake too dry? Ensure apples are finely diced and evenly distributed throughout the batter. Do not overbake! A perfectly baked Rosh Hashanah apple cake recipe spiced with cinnamon should be golden brown with a springy top.
  • Cake sunken center? Avoid opening the oven door too early, especially during the first 30 minutes of baking. Ensure the cake is fully baked by checking with a toothpick.

Ideal Serving Moments and Pairings for Spiced Apple Cake

This comforting treat is versatile for many occasions, bringing warmth and sweetness to any gathering. It’s also fantastic for easy meal prep lunches throughout the week.

  • Occasions:
    • The perfect Rosh Hashanah dessert, symbolizing a sweet new year.
    • A comforting weeknight treat when you crave something homemade.
    • A delightful addition to any fall gathering or holiday spread.
  • Pairing ideas:
    • Sides: A dollop of fresh whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a delicate drizzle of honey.
    • Drinks: Warm apple cider, a robust coffee, or a crisp dry white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
  • Storage guidelines:
    • Best containers: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.
    • Fridge: Keeps well for up to 1 week.
    • Freezer: Individual slices can be frozen for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
    • Reheating: Thaw frozen slices at room temperature, then warm gently in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

    Nutrition, Wellness & Everyday Benefits of Rosh Hashanah Apple Cake

    Indulge in this delightful rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon while still supporting a balanced diet. It’s designed to be a satisfying treat that fits into various healthy eating patterns.

    • Show how the recipe supports balance: Apples provide natural sweetness and beneficial fiber, while eggs add a touch of protein, making this a more substantial dessert.
    • Tie into trending lifestyles: This family-friendly recipe is easily adapted for a plant-based diet by using flax eggs, or made gluten-free with an appropriate flour blend. For a lighter option, you can slightly reduce the sugar without sacrificing flavor.
    • Naturally include terms: This rosh hashanah apple cake can be a lovely healthy weeknight meal option (as a sweet treat!), an easy meal prep idea (pre-slice and store), and a budget-friendly recipe, especially when apples are in season.

    Recipe Advantages for Different Needs

    Making this rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon offers several benefits, tailored to different home cooking goals.

    • Saving money: It relies on common pantry staples and seasonal apples, keeping costs down.
    • Eating healthier: Made with wholesome ingredients, you have control over sugar and fat levels to suit your preferences.
    • Quick prep: With straightforward instructions, it’s a minimal fuss recipe for a delicious outcome.
    • Feeds a crowd: This recipe yields a generous 9×13 inch cake, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
    rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon

    Expert Tips, Flavor Boosts, and Adaptations

    Elevate your rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon with these simple tricks.

    • Tricks for texture and presentation upgrades: A sprinkle of turbinado sugar over the top before baking gives a beautiful, crunchy crust and a sparkling finish.
    • Ways to make it kid-approved, guest-ready, or holiday-special:
      • Kid-approved: For my kids, I always chop the apples into slightly smaller pieces so they bake down extra soft and blend seamlessly into the cake.
      • Guest-ready: A simple honey glaze, made by whisking powdered sugar with a little honey and milk, or a dusting of powdered sugar makes it look effortlessly elegant.
      • Holiday-special: Add a touch of ground cloves or ginger to enhance the spiced flavor for the season.
    • Substitutions for allergies or special diets:
      • Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg, let sit 5 minutes) for egg allergies.
      • A 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend works perfectly for gluten sensitivity.

    Common Questions About Rosh Hashanah Apple Cake

    Can I make Rosh Hashanah apple cake ahead for meal prep?

    Yes, absolutely! This rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon stores beautifully at room temperature for several days. For longer storage, slices can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it an excellent easy meal prep idea.

    What’s the healthiest way to prepare this spiced apple cake?

    To make it healthier, use less granulated sugar (you can reduce by up to 1/2 cup), increase the apple content slightly, and consider using whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber and nutrients. For a truly moist cake, I find it’s crucial not to overbake, and keeping an eye on it after 45 minutes is key.

    Which stores or online shops carry quality apples for baking?

    Local farmer’s markets are fantastic for fresh, seasonal baking apples. Most major grocery stores also carry good quality apples, and specialty fruit shops are often a premium ingredient source for your rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon.

    Can I use different types of apples in my Rosh Hashanah apple cake?

    Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith for tang and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness, gives the best flavor depth and texture contrast in your spiced apple cake.

    How can I make my spiced apple cake extra moist?

    Ensuring you don’t overbake is critical for moisture. Also, using oil instead of butter, as this rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon suggests, significantly contributes to a wonderfully moist texture that lasts.

    What’s the significance of apple cake for Rosh Hashanah?

    Apple cake, especially when made with honey, symbolizes a sweet new year in the Jewish tradition. Enjoying a sweet rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon is a delicious way to usher in the holiday with hope for good things to come.

    Conclusion

    This spiced cinnamon Rosh Hashanah apple cake recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a sweet, family-friendly tradition, easy to make, and perfect for welcoming a new year with wholesome ingredients and quick meals in mind. Save this delicious rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon to your Pinterest board for all your holiday baking needs!

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Rosh Hashanah Apple Cake Recipe Spiced With Cinnamon 1758863573.0761616

rosh hashanah apple cake recipe Spiced with Cinnamon


  • Author: Elina Mirkle
  • Total Time: 100 minutes
  • Yield: 12 to 16 servings 1x
  • Diet: Pareve

Description

This Rosh Hashanah apple cake recipe, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, is a moist, family-friendly dessert perfect for the holidays. It is a simple yet impressive treat that consistently receives rave reviews.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5 cups apples, peeled, cored, diced (about 45 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil)
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1.5 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350F (175C) for about 15-20 minutes. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, 1.5 tsp baking soda, 0.5 tsp salt, and 2 tsp ground cinnamon until well combined.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 1.5 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Beat for about 2 minutes until creamy and pale.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently with a spatula until just combined and no streaks of flour remain (avoid overmixing).
  5. Fold In Apples (Optional Nuts): Fold in 4 to 5 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 0.5-inch dice). If desired, add 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
  6. Pour and Bake: Pour batter evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes.
  7. Cool Cake: Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Ensure any glaze added is dairy-free for a pareve option. Add 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch. Choose firm, blemish-free, fresh apples for best flavor and texture. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. For nut-free, omit nuts or substitute with pumpkin seeds. To avoid dry cake, ensure apples are finely diced and do not overbake. To prevent a sunken center, avoid opening the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (100 g)
  • Calories: 380 calories
  • Sugar: 40 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg

Keywords: apple cake, Rosh Hashanah, cinnamon, spiced, moist, easy dessert, family-friendly, pareve, baking, holiday

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