Ingredients
2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour1-2/3 cups sugar3/4 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon salt3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon3 large eggs1 cup vegetable oil2 teaspoons vanilla extract2 cups chopped peeled tart apples3/4 cup chopped walnutsFROSTING:5 tablespoons all-purpose flour1 cup whole milk1 cup butter, softened2 cups confectioners’ sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/4 teaspoon salt1 to 1-1/4 cups chopped walnutsRed food coloring, optional
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, oil and vanilla; add to dry ingredients and beat well. Fold in apples and walnuts (batter will be thick).
Spread into two greased 9-in. round baking pans. Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
For frosting, combine flour and milk in a saucepan until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1 minute. Set aside, uncovered, at room temperature for 20 minutes. In a large bowl, cream butter, sugar and vanilla. Add salt and cooked flour mixture; beat until smooth. If you wish to “write” on the cake with frosting, reserve 1/4 cup and tint with red food coloring; set aside. Use remaining frosting to frost between layers and on top and sides of cake. If desired, use the red frosting and a round decorator’s tip to add “Happy Birthday” on top. Carefully press walnuts around sides. Store in the refrigerator.
