Oregon Apple Cake

Back in the early 70's our local Oregon newspaper published an apple cake recipe from the wife of our former Governor and then new U.S. Senator, Mark O. Hatfield. 

I clipped Mrs. Hatfield's (Antoinette Kuzmanich) recipe, baked it, and continued to make it countless times ever since for guests, family, and potlucks. 

Beyond a few cookie recipes, baking anything in those days was NOT my forte. Those early years of marriage, working, and tracking two toddlers, didn't leave lots of time for gourmet desserts, so finding a great tasting, easy, and inexpensive recipe always gained my attention.

This cake is soft, moist, with just the right amount of spices for a taste of old-fashioned goodness.

 Oregon Apple Cake

3 Tabs. butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
3 cups diced apples, peeled or not, about 3 apples
1/2 cup crushed walnuts
1 cup flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. nutmeg

1 - 1/2 tsps. cinnamon

Cream shortening and sugar.  Blend in egg and vanilla.  Stir in apples and walnuts.  Combine remaining dry ingredients, mix in and blend with apple mixture.

Pour into greased 8 or 9-inch square baking pan or dish.  Bake at 350 for 45 minutes.  Top with whipped cream or ice cream, or eat as is!   Serves 6-8.

Estimated Cost: $3.00 or less; .50 cents or less a serving.

Black Russian Rye

If I can find this bread in a store, it's spendy.  I sent away for a mix, but that seemed equally expensive, until I finally figured out the basic ingredients needed to duplicate this loaf.

 I use my bread machine.  But this could be adapted by mixing, kneading, rising, shaping, rising again and baking in an oven. I like to use for Reuben or ham sandwiches or as a breakfast toast with eggs.  I slice,  freeze, then vacuum seal using as needed.

Black Russian Rye

1 1/2 cups warm water

2 Tabs. cider vinegar

1 Tab. softened butter

1 tsp. salt

1 Tab. brown sugar

1 tsp. instant coffee granules

2 Tabs. molasses, or dark corn syrup

3 Tabs. cocoa powder

2 1/2 cups bread flour

1 cup rye flour

2 tsps. yeast

(optional: 1 Tab. caraway seed; 1/4 tsp. fennel seed)

Put in machine in order of machine instructions.  Use whole wheat or regular crust setting.
Estimated Cost: $1.25 or less