Indulge in Tradition: West Virginia Apple Stack Cake Recipe You Can't Resist!

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In the heart of Appalachia, where the mountains whisper tales of old traditions and close-knit communities, a sweet treasure awaits: the West Virginia Apple Stack Cake. This dessert is more than just a cake; it's a slice of history and a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the state's early settlers. Known for its layers of spiced cake filled with sweet, stewed apples, the Apple Stack Cake is a cherished recipe passed down through generations.

The Tradition of West Virginia's Apple Stack Cake

Imagine a cake that isn't just a dessert but a symbol of community and celebration. The West Virginia Apple Stack Cake was traditionally made for special occasions, like weddings or family gatherings, where each layer of the cake was baked by a different family or guest and then assembled at the event. This cake reflects the Appalachian spirit of community, with each layer representing the contributions of friends and family.

The rich flavors of the cake come from the combination of molasses and spices, which pair perfectly with the apple filling. As the cake sits, the flavors meld together, and the cake becomes even more delicious over time. This makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive holiday celebration.

Recipe: West Virginia Apple Stack Cake

Ingredients:

• For the Cake Layers:
• • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
• For the Apple Filling:
• • 6 cups dried apples
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
2. • In a large saucepan, combine the dried apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and water.
   • Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the apples are soft and the mixture thickens, about 30-40 minutes.
   • Let the filling cool while you prepare the cake layers.
3. Make the Cake Layers:
4. • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease several 8-inch round cake pans (or reuse one pan multiple times).
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the molasses and egg to the butter mixture, beating well to combine.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans to create 6-7 thin layers. Each layer should be about 1/4 inch thick.
   • Bake each layer for about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Assemble the Cake:
6. • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thin layer of the apple filling on top.
   • Continue layering the cake and apple filling until all layers are used, finishing with apple filling on top.
   • Wrap the assembled cake in plastic wrap and let it sit overnight at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.

The Sweet Finale

The West Virginia Apple Stack Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of community and heritage. With its layers of tender cake and spiced apple filling, this cake embodies the warmth and comfort of Appalachian hospitality. Serve it at your next gathering and share a piece of West Virginia's sweet history with friends and family.

Source: Family Recipe