For the past several years, baker extraordinaire Lisa Hainline has added some extra sweetness to the High Holy Day services Boulder JFS brings to local retirement communities. As a cherished behind-the-scenes volunteer, Lisa bakes as many apple cakes as our Boulder staff asks her to—this year it’s six! While the residents enjoy the traditional apples and honey that is served at most Rosh Hashanah celebrations, they are thrilled to see Lisa’s homemade cakes on the tables.

Lisa has graciously shared her apple cake recipe with us so you can make it for Rosh Hashanah!

Lisa Hainline’s Apple Cake Recipe

12 servings
Time to make 1½ hours 30 min prep

3 cups flour

2 cups sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 large eggs, beaten

1 cup olive oil

2 teaspoons vanilla

3 cups finely chopped apples

1/2 cup apple juice

1 cup chopped pecans (I leave these out when serving crowds and strangers)

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/4  cup butter

1/3  cup whipping cream

1. In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, soda and salt. Make a well in the center and set aside.

2. In a medium bowl combine eggs, oil, apple juice and vanilla. Stir in apples and nuts. Add the egg mixture to dry ingredients, just until moistened.

3. Spread batter in a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.

4. In a small saucepan combine the brown sugar, butter and cream.

5. Cook and stir till bubbly and all of the sugar is dissolved. Cool slightly. Drizzle warm sauce over cake, when it has cooled for 5 minutes, so it can seep into the cake, keeping it moist.

Hints: You can cut the fat by using half oil, half applesauce or even all applesauce for the calorie conscious.  I also leave the skins on the apples, gives more healthy fiber and adds a beautiful pick hue to the dessert.  I double the recipe when serving a crowd, cutting into pieces, like brownies.  Moist, sweet and impressive!