Apache Cake: An Irresistibly Rich and Easy Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of incredibly moist and chocolatey cake, its rich flavor balanced by a hint of spice and a delightful crunch. That’s the magic of Apache Cake! This cake, known for its simplicity and deliciousness, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, need a comforting dessert on a cozy evening, or simply craving something sweet, Apache Cake is the perfect choice.

While the exact origins of Apache Cake are somewhat mysterious, it’s believed to have evolved from traditional spice cake recipes. The addition of chocolate and nuts gives it a unique and satisfying twist, making it a beloved treat in many households. Its ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 8-10

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ⅓ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.



3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix well until combined. The batter will be slightly thin.

4. Incorporate Boiling Water: Gradually add the boiling water to the batter while mixing on low speed. This step is crucial for a moist cake. The batter will become very thin.

5. Add Nuts (Optional): If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts.

6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in a dry cake.

7. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from breaking apart.

8. Cream Butter: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

9. Add Powdered Sugar and Cocoa: Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk, until well combined. Beat until smooth and creamy.

10. Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

11. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the prepared frosting.

• Use High-Quality Cocoa: The quality of your cocoa powder significantly impacts the flavor of the cake. Opt for a good-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Measure Accurately: Accurate measurements are essential for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting.
• Add a Touch of Coffee: For an even deeper chocolate flavor, add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder to the boiling water before adding it to the batter.
• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

• Calories: 450-550
• Fat: 20-25g
• Saturated Fat: 10-12g
• Cholesterol: 50-60mg
• Sodium: 300-350mg
• Carbohydrates: 60-70g
• Sugar: 40-50g
• Protein: 4-6g

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apache Cake! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!