This delightful apple lemon cake is simple yet packed with flavor. Fresh apples, zesty lemon juice, and a rich apricot jam glaze create a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The cake is tender and moist, with a beautiful golden color. It’s a great option for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35-40 minutes
- Total time: 50-55 minutes
Ingredients:
- Apples: 2 (pcs)
- Butter: 25 g
- Lemon juice: 15 g
- Sugar: 20 g (for apples)
- Eggs: 2 pcs
- Sugar: 130 g (for cake batter)
- Milk: 60 g
- Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): 60 g
- Sunflower oil: 60 g
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Flour: 200 g
- Baking powder: 8 g
- Apricot jam: for glaze
Directions:
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel and slice the apples.
- In a pan, melt the butter and add the sliced apples, lemon juice, and 20 g of sugar.
- Cook for a few minutes until the apples soften and become caramelized. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs with 130 g of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the milk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), sunflower oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Sift the flour and baking powder into the mixture and fold until well combined.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Grease and line an 18 cm or 20 cm cake tin.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and evenly distribute the caramelized apple slices on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Glaze the Cake:
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Warm the apricot jam slightly and brush it over the top of the cake for a glossy finish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Cooking Tips:
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a more pronounced apple flavor.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to add a richer texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Rich in fiber and antioxidants.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Adds a creamy texture with a boost of protein and calcium.
- Sunflower Oil: A healthier fat alternative that keeps the cake moist.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage:
- Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Quick: Easy to make with basic ingredients.
- Flavorful Combination: Apples, lemon, and apricot glaze create a delightful mix of flavors.
- Moist and Tender: The combination of sour cream and oil keeps the cake perfectly moist.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert or an afternoon snack.
Conclusion:
This apple lemon cake is an easy yet delicious treat that combines fresh apples and a tangy lemon zest with a sweet apricot glaze. It’s quick to make and the perfect balance of flavors for a light dessert or a cozy afternoon snack. You’ll love the soft texture and the hint of caramelized apples on top!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute for sour cream and will add extra creaminess. - What kind of apples should I use?
Tart apples like Granny Smith work well, but you can use any apple variety you like. - Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - Can I use a different jam instead of apricot?
Yes, feel free to use any jam or jelly you prefer for glazing. - How do I store this cake?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. - Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, the cake is delicious even without the apricot jam glaze, but it adds a nice touch of sweetness. - Can I use less sugar?
You can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet cake. - What can I serve with this cake?
It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or ice cream, or simply enjoy it on its own! - Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended, but if you prefer a rustic look, you can leave the skins on. - Can I add spices like cinnamon?
Yes, adding cinnamon or nutmeg would enhance the flavor of the apples.