Jewish Apple Cake with Orange Glaze Recipe

Cook Time: 85 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups peeled apples, thinly sliced
• 5 tablespoons white sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups white sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• cup orange juice
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• cup butter, melted
• cup orange juice
• cup white sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Grease and flour a 9-inch tube pan.
2. In a bowl, mix the sliced apples, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the vegetable oil and 2 cups of sugar with an electric mixer until well combined.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated into the mixture.
5. Mix in the vanilla extract and cup of orange juice with the last egg.
6. In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients into the sugar mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared tube pan, smoothing it out evenly.
8. Layer the prepared apple mixture over the batter in the pan.
9. Pour the remaining batter over the apples, spreading it out evenly to cover.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
11. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it.
12. For the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, cup of orange juice, and cup of sugar.
13. Pour the glaze over the warm cake while it is still in the pan, letting it soak in before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	545
Total Fat	24g	31%
Saturated Fat	6g	29%
Cholesterol	72mg	24%
Sodium	367mg	16%
Total Carbohydrate	79g	29%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Total Sugars	53g
Protein	6g	11%
Vitamin C	7mg	8%
Calcium	97mg	7%
Iron	2mg	11%
Potassium	108mg	2%

This moist and delicious Jewish apple cake is filled with a layer of cinnamony apples and finished with a sweet orange-flavored glaze. A perfect dessert for any occasion!

History of Jewish Apple Cake

Jewish apple cake, though widely popular in Jewish communities, does not have a definitive origin. It is believed to be a staple in Eastern European Jewish households, especially in the Ashkenazi tradition. Its deep roots can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe brought their culinary traditions to America. This cake was often baked for festive occasions like Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, offering a comforting, sweet treat during the holidays. The cakes combination of fresh apples and spices made it a beloved dessert that could be enjoyed throughout the year.

Regional Variations

Though Jewish apple cake is most often associated with Eastern European Jewish communities, various regions have put their own spin on the dish. In some parts of Eastern Europe, the cake might be made with a hint of rum or brandy in the glaze, adding a depth of flavor. In the United States, particularly in New York and other areas with large Jewish populations, the cake became a common item at bakery counters, often showcasing a glossier finish from a sugar glaze or dusting of powdered sugar. The addition of orange juice in the glaze is a more modern twist, reflecting the shift toward citrus-based flavors in contemporary Jewish baking.

What Sets Jewish Apple Cake Apart?

At first glance, Jewish apple cake might seem similar to other apple-based cakes, but what truly differentiates it is the richness of its batter and the generous layering of cinnamon-spiced apples throughout. While many apple cakes might mix the fruit directly into the batter, Jewish apple cake places the apples in distinct layers, creating pockets of tender, spiced fruit. The orange glaze adds an extra burst of citrusy sweetness, setting it apart from other apple desserts, which often rely on traditional caramel or sugar toppings.

Where is Jewish Apple Cake Typically Served?

This cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in a variety of settings. Traditionally, its served during Jewish holidays, particularly Rosh Hashanah, as its sweetness symbolizes the hope for a sweet year ahead. It is also common at family gatherings, brunches, or as a simple dessert to enjoy with coffee or tea. The cakes dense and moist texture makes it an excellent choice for potlucks or bake sales, as it holds up well during transportation and can be served at room temperature. Some families even serve it as part of a holiday spread, alongside other traditional treats like challah and kugel.

Interesting Facts About Jewish Apple Cake

• The cake is often baked in a Bundt pan, which gives it a visually appealing shape and allows for even baking.
• Jewish apple cake has a reputation for being "moist," thanks to the high oil content in the batter, which helps keep the cake tender even after a few days.
• In some variations of the recipe, nuts such as walnuts or pecans are added, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft, spiced apples.
• While the cake is often associated with Jewish cuisine, it has transcended religious and cultural boundaries and is enjoyed by many beyond the Jewish community.

Jewish apple cake is a symbol of tradition, community, and the simple pleasures of life. Whether you enjoy it during a holiday celebration or as an everyday treat, this cake offers a delicious taste of history with every bite.

FAQ about Jewish Apple Cake with Orange Glaze Recipe

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