Apple Pecan Cake with Vanilla Icing

 Ingredients

3/4 cup of oil

2 cups of sugar

4 large eggs

3 cups of flour

1 teaspoon of baking soda

1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon of sea salt

2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

3 1/2 cups of Granny Smith apples, chopped (about 3-4 apples)

1 cup of chopped pecans

1/3 cup of butter

1/2 cup of light brown sugar

1/2 cup of milk

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for icing)

Preparation Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures your cake cooks evenly and rises well.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together 3/4 cup of oil, 2 cups of sugar, and 4 large eggs. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be light and slightly thick, indicating that the eggs and sugar are properly integrated.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Sifting ensures the dry ingredients are light and smooth, helping the cake to bake evenly.

Step 4: Mix in the Apples and Pecans

Gently fold in 3 1/2 cups of chopped Granny Smith apples and 1 cup of chopped pecans. The apples add moisture and a fruity flavor, while the pecans provide a delightful crunch. Ensure the apples and pecans are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Prepare the Pan

Generously grease and flour a tube pan or two loaf pans. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Done

Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake after 50 minutes. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, the cake is done. If using loaf pans, check them around 50 minutes, as they may bake faster than a tube pan.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Enjoy your delicious  Apple Pecan Cake with or without icing!