Can you substitute red delicious apples for granny smith in a cake recipe?

It's not ideal, but you can substitute red delicious apples for granny smith in a cake recipe, but it will affect the final result. Here's why and what to expect:

Red Delicious vs. Granny Smith:

* Taste: Granny Smith apples are tart and tangy, while Red Delicious are sweeter and milder. This difference will significantly change the flavor profile of your cake.

* Texture: Granny Smith apples are firmer and hold their shape better when baked, while Red Delicious are softer and tend to break down more easily.

* Moisture: Red Delicious apples are juicier than Granny Smith, potentially leading to a wetter cake.

Impact on Cake:

* Flavor: The cake will be sweeter and less tart than intended.

* Texture: The cake might be softer and more crumbly due to the softer apples.

* Moisture: The cake could be too moist, potentially causing it to fall apart or not bake through properly.

Tips for Using Red Delicious:

* Reduce the amount: Use less red delicious apples than the recipe calls for (maybe 1/4 less) to minimize the moisture content.

* Add more lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice can help balance the sweetness and add a tartness similar to granny smith apples.

* Use less sugar: Since red delicious apples are already sweet, you may need to reduce the sugar in the recipe.

* Cook longer: Baking the cake slightly longer can help it dry out if it's too moist.

Best Solution:

If you have the option, it's always better to stick with the original ingredients in a recipe. However, if you're stuck with red delicious apples, you can make adjustments to compensate for the differences.