Apple and Raisin Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
• For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
   • Gently fold in the chopped apples and raisins.
5. Transfer to Baking Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
6. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the chopped nuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious apple and raisin cake!