Apple-Filled Yeast Cake – Soft, Sweet, and Irresistible!

This Apple-Filled Yeast Cake is a soft, golden-brown delight with a tender, pillowy texture and a delicious apple filling. The sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples add a comforting flavor, while the fluffy yeast dough makes every bite melt in your mouth. This cake is perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a special occasion dessert!

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Rise Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • Warm milk: 300 ml (1 ¼ cups)
  • Sugar: 40 g (3 tbsp)
  • Dry yeast: 6 g (2 tsp)
  • Salt: 1 tsp
  • Egg: 1
  • Vegetable oil: 120 ml (½ cup)
  • Flour: 600 g (4 ¾ cups)

For the Filling:

  • Red apples (rolled): 4, chopped into small cubes
  • Sugar: 2 tbsp
  • Vanilla sugar: 8 g (1 tbsp)
  • Cornstarch: 1 tbsp
  • Water: 3 tbsp

To Brush & Decorate:

  • Egg yolk: 1, for brushing
  • Powdered sugar: to taste

Directions

  • Prepare the Yeast Dough:
    • In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
    • Add salt, egg, and vegetable oil, then mix well.
    • Sift in the flour gradually, stirring to combine.
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
    • Form into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
  • Prepare the Apple Filling:
    • In a pan, add the chopped apples, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Mix well.
    • Cook over medium heat for 6 minutes until slightly softened.
    • Mix cornstarch with water, then pour over the apples, stirring quickly to thicken.
    • Remove from heat and let cool.
  • Shape the Dough:
    • Punch down the risen dough and divide into 16 equal pieces.
    • Roll each piece into a ball, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes.
    • Roll out each ball into an 18 cm (7-inch) circle.
    • Make a small cut in the dough, add 2 teaspoons of apple filling, and roll into a log shape.
  • Assemble the Cake:
    • Grease a 28 cm (11-inch) baking dish and line the bottom with parchment paper.
    • Arrange the filled dough rolls in the dish, leaving some space between them.
    • Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 40 minutes.
  • Bake the Cake:
    • Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
    • Brush the dough with beaten egg yolk.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
  • Serve:
    • Let the cake cool on a wire rack.
    • Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
  • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
  • Pair with a spiced latte for a cozy fall treat.

Cooking Tips

  • Make sure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
  • Use a mix of apples for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
  • Let the dough rise fully for a lighter, fluffier texture.
  • If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Apples provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Milk and eggs add protein and essential nutrients.
  • Homemade dough is free from preservatives, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought pastries.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Soft, fluffy, and rich in flavor
Simple ingredients, amazing results
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
Crowd-pleasing and kid-friendly
Easy to customize with different fillings

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
    • Yes! Use 4 g (1 ½ tsp) of instant yeast and skip the proofing step.
  • Can I prepare this dough the night before?
    • Yes! Let it rise in the fridge overnight and continue shaping in the morning.
  • Can I freeze the baked rolls?
  • Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    • Yes, but the texture will be denser. Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for best results.
  • How do I store leftovers?
    • Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for 5 days.

Conclusion
This Apple-Filled Yeast Cake is a soft, fluffy, and sweet treat that is perfect for any occasion. The delicate apple filling, combined with the golden-baked dough, makes this a comforting and satisfying dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it with coffee, as a snack, or for a special gathering, this homemade delight is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy every fluffy, fruity bite! 🍏✨