This Apple Cake is a delightful and simple dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of apples while combining them with a fluffy, light batter. It’s easy to make, and with just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, moist cake that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an afternoon snack or a dessert after dinner, this cake will be a hit with family and friends. The powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance to the finished cake.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
- 3 apples, peeled and sliced
- 3 eggs
- 200g (1 cup) sugar
- 10g (2 teaspoons) vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 160g (1¼ cups) flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Powdered sugar, for decoration
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Grease and flour a baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until frothy.
- Gradually add the sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes pale and thick.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift the flour and baking powder together.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
4. Add the Apples
- Gently fold the apple slices into the batter, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout.
5. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Cake
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Decorate
- Once the cake is cool, sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar before serving to add a finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
This apple cake is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a more festive touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or add a handful of toasted nuts for added texture. It’s also great with a cup of coffee or tea for a relaxing afternoon.
Tips for Perfect Apple Cake
- Use Firm Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which will hold up well in the batter and provide a nice tartness.
- Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients and apples. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Test for Doneness: If the top of the cake is golden brown but the toothpick doesn’t come out clean, cover the cake loosely with foil and bake for a few more minutes.
- Apple Variety: Feel free to mix different apple varieties for a more complex flavor. A mix of sweet and tart apples works well.
Variations to Try
- Cinnamon Apple Cake: Add 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.
- Nutty Apple Cake: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
- Vegan Apple Cake: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) in place of the egg, and substitute dairy-free butter or oil for the fat.
- Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the cake before serving for a sweet and decadent twist.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: A good source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, apples promote digestion and support a healthy immune system.
- Eggs: A great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, eggs help build muscle and support overall health.
- Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy, making this cake a satisfying treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Cake is wonderfully light and fluffy, with the sweetness of the apples perfectly balancing the light batter. It’s easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and it’s a great way to enjoy fresh apples. The light dusting of powdered sugar makes it look elegant and inviting, perfect for any gathering or a cozy treat at home.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or berries, but the baking time might need slight adjustments depending on the moisture content of the fruit. -
How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days. -
Can I freeze this apple cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. Allow it to thaw at room temperature before serving. -
Can I add nuts to the cake?
Yes, feel free to add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter for an extra crunch. -
What should I do if the cake isn’t cooking through?
If the cake is golden on top but still raw in the center, reduce the oven temperature slightly and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, covering the cake with foil to prevent overbrowning.