This Apple Custard Cake is a delightful combination of moist cake, creamy custard, and tender apple slices. Perfect as a dessert or a teatime treat, this cake offers layers of flavor and texture in every bite.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients:
- Custard Layer:
- Egg Yolks: 2
- Sugar: 1/4 cup (60 g)
- Vanilla Essence: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (15 g)
- Cake Batter:
- Egg Whites: 2 (reserved from custard layer)
- Eggs: 2 whole
- Sugar: 2/5 cup (100 g)
- Salt: A pinch
- Milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Lime or Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lime or lemon
- Flour: 2 cups (280 g)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Apple Layer:
- Apple: 1, thinly sliced
- Decoration:
- Powdered Sugar: 1 teaspoon
Directions:
- Prepare the Custard Layer: In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla essence (if using). Add the milk and cornstarch, stirring constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens into custard. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the reserved egg whites and whole eggs with sugar and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy. Add the milk and lime or lemon zest, mixing well. Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F). Line a 27 x 18 cm (10.5 x 7 inch) baking mold with parchment paper. Pour the cake batter into the prepared mold and smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange the apple slices over the batter in a single layer. Pour the cooled custard evenly over the apple slices.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the mold before removing.
- Decorate and Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Garnish with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Add fresh fruit, like berries, on the side for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve slightly warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the custard is fully cooled before adding it to the cake batter to prevent it from mixing in during baking.
- Use a tart apple variety like Granny Smith for a balance of flavors.
- Sift the flour before adding it to the batter for a lighter texture.
- Test the cake with a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean but slightly moist.
- Cool the cake completely before slicing to maintain clean layers.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
- Milk: Adds calcium and creaminess to the custard and batter.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
- Not suitable for vegans or those with gluten allergies.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 18 g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Combines the sweetness of apples with the creaminess of custard for a perfectly balanced dessert.
- Easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Beautifully layered presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.
- Light and fluffy texture with a hint of citrus from the lime or lemon zest.
Conclusion: This Apple Custard Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. The creamy custard, soft cake, and tender apples create a combination of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different fruits instead of apples? Yes, pears, peaches, or berries are excellent alternatives.
- How do I prevent the custard from curdling? Stir constantly while cooking and avoid high heat.
- Can I use a different flour type? All-purpose flour works best, but you can use gluten-free flour blends.
- What apple variety is best? Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for baking.
- Can I skip the custard layer? The custard adds creaminess, but you can omit it for a simpler cake.
- Can I add spices to the batter? Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg pairs beautifully with apples.
- How do I store the cake? Keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk? Yes, almond milk works well in the custard and batter.
- How do I know when the cake is done? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.