3/4 cup softened butter
3/4 cup light brown sugar
3 medium eggs, beaten
2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground mixed spices or cinnamon
3 tablespoons cocoa powder, sifted
2 1/2 cups peeled, cored,and diced cooking apples
1 cup golden raisins
Approx. 6 tablespoons milk
6 squares dark chocolate, roughly chopped

Preparation Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease and line a deep 8 inch round cake pan. Cream the butter and sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs, beating well after each addition. Fold in the flour, baking powder, mixed spices, and cocoa powder; then fold in the apples, golden raisins, and enough milk to give a fairly soft dropping consistency. Fold in the chocolate. Transfer the mixture to the cake pan and level the surface. Bake for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours, until risen and firm to the touch. Cool in the pan for a few minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack. Remove the lining paper and leave to cool completely. Serve the apple cake warm or cold with a little homemade custard, plain yogurt, creme fraiche, or light sour cream. Makes 10 servings.