German Apple Cake

This easy-to-make treat is sure to become a family favorite.

"My mother made this cake for me and my brothers during our childhood," says Edie DeSpain, a field editor from Logan, Utah. "It's excellent any time of the year for potlucks or picnics."

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 55 minutes

You Will Need
3 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 cups chopped peeled tart apples
3/4 cup chopped pecans

Frosting
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons butter, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar


What to Do
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla. Combine the flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt; add to egg mixture and mix well. Fold in apples and nuts. Pour into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

2. In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter. Add confectioners' sugar, beating until smooth. Spread over cake. Refrigerate leftovers.

Serves 12-16