This delightful Apple Almond Cake is the perfect blend of soft apples, crunchy almonds, and warm cinnamon, creating a wonderfully comforting dessert. The addition of a homemade caramel sauce takes it to the next level, adding a sweet, buttery finish to every bite. It’s an excellent choice for family gatherings, tea time, or simply as a treat on a cozy afternoon.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 eggs
- 120 grams (1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons) sugar
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) oil
- 100 ml (just under 1/2 cup) milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 220 grams (1 3/4 cups) flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 200 grams (1 3/4 cups) sliced almonds
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 50 grams (1/4 cup) sugar
- 50 ml (1/4 cup) hot water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 100 ml (1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon) water
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), fan-assisted.
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss with cinnamon and set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, milk, and lemon zest until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in Apples and Almonds: Gently fold in the prepared apple slices and half of the sliced almonds into the batter.
- Pour and Top: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined cake pan. Sprinkle the remaining almonds on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns golden brown. Carefully add hot water, stirring constantly until smooth. Dissolve the cornstarch in the 100 ml of water, then add to the caramel mixture. Cook, stirring, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Serve: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cake slices just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
- Dust with powdered sugar or a light sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweet caramel sauce.
- If you prefer a more intense almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the batter.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples provide fiber and antioxidants, making this cake a slightly healthier indulgence.
- Almonds add healthy fats, vitamin E, and a lovely crunch.
Dietary Information
- Contains: Gluten, eggs, dairy, and nuts.
- To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute milk with almond or oat milk.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices briefly in the microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Simple steps and ingredients make this cake a breeze to prepare.
- Perfect Texture: The combination of soft apples and crunchy almonds creates a delightful texture.
- Flavorful: Warm cinnamon, bright lemon zest, and rich caramel sauce make every bite memorable.
- Versatile: Great for dessert, a snack, or even breakfast!
Conclusion
This Apple Almond Cake with Caramel Sauce is a deliciously simple dessert that’s sure to impress. The soft, spiced apples paired with the crunch of almonds and a silky caramel drizzle make this a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s a cake that brings comfort and joy in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?
Yes, walnuts or pecans would also work well and add a nice texture. - Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. - What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples are great choices. - Can I omit the caramel sauce?
Absolutely! The cake is delicious on its own, but the caramel adds a lovely finishing touch. - Can I use almond flour instead of regular flour?
Almond flour will change the texture, making it denser, but it can work if you adjust the wet ingredients slightly. - Is there a way to reduce the sugar content?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by 20-30 grams or use a sugar substitute like erythritol. - Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. - Can I add raisins or other dried fruit?
Yes, adding raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apricots can enhance the flavor. - Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. - What can I use instead of oil?
You can substitute the oil with melted butter or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.