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layered caramel wafer stack with crispy thin sheets and creamy filling close-up

Appalachian Stack Cake

Richard KlausRichard Klaus
The Appalachian Stack Cake is a multi-layered dessert filled with spiced apple filling, embodying the rich flavors and traditions of the Southern Appalachian region.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup molasses

Apple Filling

  • 4 cups peeled and sliced apples
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal of the cake layers.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ginger. Whisk together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  • Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and molasses. Mix until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake layers cool completely on a wire rack.

Apple Filling

  • In a saucepan, combine the sliced apples, molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens. Allow the filling to cool before assembling the cake.

Assembly and Serving

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of apple filling over it. Repeat the process until all layers are stacked, finishing with a layer of apple filling on top.
  • Allow the cake to rest for several hours or overnight to let the flavors meld. Slice and serve at room temperature, enjoying the rich flavors and moist texture.

Storage

  • Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Let the cake rest overnight for enhanced flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use coconut oil instead of butter, or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
How to Serve: Best served at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
Storage & Freshness: Store in a cool place; the cake keeps well for several days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the cake layers and filling a day in advance for easy assembly.
Keyword appalachian stack cake, layered apple cake, traditional Appalachian dessert