Jewish Apple Cake from Bubba's Recipe Box Recipe
Apple Cinnamon Cake
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- cup white sugar
- 5 large Rome Beauty apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan.
- In a bowl, mix the cinnamon, cup of sugar, and chopped apples together. Set the mixture aside.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the vegetable oil, mixing well after each addition.
- Beat in the orange juice and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Layer half of the apple mixture on top of the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter over the apples, then top with the remaining apple mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Tips
- For a more tart flavor, try using Granny Smith apples.
- For added sweetness and a glossy finish, drizzle the leftover juice from the apple-cinnamon mixture over the cake.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 528 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 62mg |
| Sodium | 341mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 83g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Sugars | 56g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Vitamin C | 7mg |
| Calcium | 90mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
| Potassium | 164mg |
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Jewish Apple Cake is a beloved dessert that has become a staple in many Jewish households, particularly in the United States. Its a moist, flavorful cake brimming with the sweetness of apples and the warm scent of cinnamon. This cake is often prepared for special occasions, such as Jewish holidays, but its comforting flavor makes it a great treat for any time of year.
History and Origins
The origins of Jewish Apple Cake are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is widely believed to have been brought to the United States by Eastern European Jewish immigrants in the early 20th century. The cakes humble roots are a reflection of the resourceful nature of Jewish immigrants who sought to create delicious dishes with readily available ingredients. With apples being abundant in many parts of the U.S., they became a natural addition to the cake's rich, dense batter. Over time, this cake became synonymous with Jewish family traditions, especially during holidays like Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur. The cake symbolizes the sweetness of the new year and is often served alongside other traditional Jewish foods.
Regional Variations
While the Jewish Apple Cake is enjoyed across many Jewish communities in the U.S., it has distinct variations based on regional and personal preferences. In New York, for example, the cake might include a bit of orange juice or zest to complement the apples sweetness. In other parts of the country, a streusel topping with nuts may be added, giving the cake an added crunch. The choice of apples also varies, with varieties like Granny Smith, Rome Beauty, or even Fuji being popular in different regions. While the basic recipe remains the same, these small adjustments give each version of the cake its unique twist.
How It Differs from Similar Desserts
Jewish Apple Cake differs from traditional American apple cakes in several key ways. First, it tends to have a denser texture, almost like a pound cake, due to the higher oil content and the layering of apples throughout the batter. This contrasts with lighter, fluffier apple cakes that are typically made with butter. Another distinction is the use of a tube pan or bundt pan, which allows for an even bake and a beautiful presentation. The addition of orange juice to the batter also sets it apart from many other apple cakes, infusing the cake with a subtle citrus note that complements the cinnamon-spiced apples.
Where It Is Typically Served
Jewish Apple Cake is often served during the fall and winter months, particularly during Jewish holidays like Rosh Hashanah, but it can be enjoyed year-round. Its rich, comforting flavors make it a perfect dessert for family gatherings and festive occasions. The cakes combination of sweetness and spiciness makes it a great pairing with a cup of tea or coffee, making it ideal for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations. In fact, it is often made in large quantities to feed a crowd, as it is a universally loved treat that rarely lasts long at any gathering.
Interesting Facts
- The recipe for Jewish Apple Cake has been passed down through generations in many Jewish families, with each baker adding their own touch. It is often said that once you find a good Jewish Apple Cake recipe, you should never change it!
- One of the unique features of this cake is its use of Rome Beauty apples, a variety that is known for its ability to hold up well during baking without turning mushy.
- In some families, Jewish Apple Cake is made in honor of loved ones who have passed away, becoming a way of keeping family traditions alive and honoring those who came before.
- Although the cake is most commonly associated with Jewish holidays, its widespread popularity has made it a common dessert in non-Jewish households as well, especially in areas with large Jewish populations.
Whether youre celebrating a Jewish holiday or simply indulging in a sweet treat, the Jewish Apple Cake from Bubbas Recipe Box is sure to delight. Its tender crumb, cinnamon-spiced apples, and rich flavor are the perfect combination of tradition and deliciousness.
FAQ about Jewish Apple Cake from Bubba's Recipe Box Recipe
Comments
Gary Rivera
02/16/2024 05:48:20 AM
I have been making Jewish Apple Cakes for a long time. This recipe is great as it is, and the cake itself is delicious. However, being an experienced cook, I couldn't resist adding my own twist. I swapped orange juice for apple juice and used a mix of 3/8 cup white sugar and 3/8 cup brown sugar, along with 1/2 tablespoon of cinnamon. I also let the apples macerate for 24 to 48 hours.
Catherine Wilson
10/31/2023 07:13:57 AM
First attempt at baking a cake from scratch was a success! I usually stick to making pies and cookies, but decided to try something new with my 10-year-old. We had no problems following the recipe and everyone in my family loved the cake. Will definitely be making it again!