Perfect Apple Cake

This recipe comes from Gennaro's new cookbook, available online now!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (a sweet variety like Gala or Honeycrisp works well)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Apples:
   • Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
3. Make the Batter:
   • In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   • Fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using).
4. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
   • Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Optional: Dust with Powdered Sugar:
   • Once the cake is cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Slice and enjoy your perfect apple cake!