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Apple Stack Cake

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Apple Stack Cake is a traditional layered dessert made with thin, tender cake layers stacked with a rich spiced apple filling. As the cake rests, the filling softens the layers, creating a moist, flavorful dessert with rustic charm that is perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 day 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces dried apples, chopped
  • 5 cups water
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons apple pie spice
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 6 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the chopped dried apples and water in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 40–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft.
  3. Mash the apples into a chunky sauce using a potato masher or spoon.
  4. Stir in the brown sugar and apple pie spice. Continue simmering uncovered for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
  5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 5–7 minutes.
  7. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  8. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
  9. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until a soft dough forms.
  10. Divide the dough into eight equal portions and shape each into a disk.
  11. Roll each disk into a 9-inch circle on lightly floured parchment paper.
  12. Transfer the parchment with dough to a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
  13. Cool the cake layers completely on wire racks.
  14. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread about 2/3 cup apple filling evenly across the surface.
  15. Repeat layering cake and filling until all layers are used, finishing with a plain cake layer on top.
  16. Wrap the assembled cake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1–2 days so the filling softens the layers.
  17. Before serving, dust the top lightly with confectioners’ sugar if desired.

Notes

  • The cake improves in flavor after resting for one to two days.
  • Spread the apple filling evenly to keep the layers stable.
  • Fresh apples can replace dried apples if simmered until very soft.
  • Adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can enhance the filling’s flavor.
  • Keep the cake tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/apple-stack-cake/