This Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake recipe looks delicious and perfect for any occasion! The combination of apples and cinnamon brings warmth and comfort, making it a delightful treat for gatherings or simply for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Here’s a structured and comprehensive breakdown of the recipe for easy reference:
Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Baking: 40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- For the Batter:
- 3 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 135g sugar (about 2/3 cup)
- 1/3 tsp vanilla extract
- 135g milk (about 1/2 cup)
- 70ml oil (about 1/3 cup)
- 15g baking powder (about 1 tbsp)
- 300g flour (about 2 1/2 cups)
- For the Filling:
- 2-3 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- Cinnamon powder, to taste
- Additional sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Grease a cake mold with butter or oil.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt using a mixer until frothy.
- Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract, milk, and oil to the egg mixture. Mix well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the baking powder with the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour a layer of the batter into the greased cake mold.
- Add a layer of chopped apples on top of the batter.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon powder over the apples.
- Pour another layer of batter over the apples.
- Add another layer of chopped apples on top.
- Bake the Cake:
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the mold for a few minutes.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Optionally, sprinkle the top of the cake with additional sugar for added sweetness and crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake warm or at room temperature.
- It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Batter Consistency: Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Add Texture: You can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra texture and flavor.
- Apple Variety: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Provide vitamins, fiber, and natural sweetness, contributing to the cake’s nutritional value.
- Vegetable Oil and Milk: Help keep the cake moist without adding excessive calories.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave before serving if desired.
- Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this cake accessible to all bakers.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a warm and comforting dessert.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to a sweet treat after dinner.
- Comforting and Familiar: The classic flavors of apple and cinnamon are universally loved and bring a sense of nostalgia.
Conclusion:
This Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake is a simple yet flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just for yourself, it’s a cake that’s sure to please. The layers of apples combined with the warm cinnamon flavor create a delightful treat that’s both comforting and satisfying. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute pears or peaches for a different flavor profile. - How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom?
Toss the chopped apples in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay suspended in the cake. - Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You can use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balance. - What type of apples work best for this cake?
A mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji works well. - How do I make the cake more moist?
You can add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the batter for extra moisture. - Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use plant-based milk and oil. - Can I add a glaze or frosting to this cake?
A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a cream cheese frosting would complement the flavors well. - Can I use cinnamon sugar instead of plain cinnamon?
Yes, cinnamon sugar will add a bit of extra sweetness and a nice crunch to the apple layers. - How do I store the cake to keep it fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the cake. - Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. It keeps well and can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated.