This Apple Rum Cake is a delightful dessert featuring tender apples and a hint of dark rum. Perfect for any occasion, it combines the sweetness of apples with the rich flavor of rum in a moist, buttery cake. With chunks of sweet apples nestled in a tender and buttery rum cake, this French apple cake is the essence of simplicity.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling over cake
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons dark rum
- 2 baking apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch cubes (3½ – 4 cups chopped)
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional), for decorating cake
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and set an oven rack in the middle position.
- Grease a 9-inch springform or regular cake pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray. If using a regular cake pan, line the bottom with parchment paper and grease again.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- Using a handheld mixer with beaters or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well and scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition.
- Beat in the vanilla and rum. The batter may look grainy at this point, which is normal.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the chopped apples.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle evenly with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar.
- Bake:
- Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool on a rack in the pan.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once cool, run a blunt knife around the edges of the cake.
- If using a springform pan, remove the sides. If using a regular cake pan, carefully invert the cake onto the rack, remove the parchment paper, then gently flip the cake over and place right-side-up on a platter.
- Using a fine sieve, dust with confectioners’ sugar (if using).
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature.
- Enjoy it plain or with lightly sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for proper creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a dense cake.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Provide dietary fiber and vitamin C.
- Using Unsalted Butter: Helps control sodium intake.
Storage Tips:
- Freezer Friendly Instructions: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. After it is completely cooled, wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or freezer wrap. Thaw overnight on the countertop before serving.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This Apple Rum Cake is easy to make and delivers a deliciously moist texture with a burst of apple flavor. The addition of rum adds a unique depth, making it a standout dessert for gatherings or special occasions.
Conclusion: Enjoy this delightful Apple Rum Cake as a sweet treat for any event or just to satisfy your craving for something special. With its simple ingredients and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of apples?
- Yes, you can use any firm, tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith.
- Can I substitute the rum with something else?
- Yes, you can use apple juice or apple cider as a non-alcoholic substitute.
- How do I ensure the cake is not too dense?
- Make sure not to overmix the batter once the flour is added.
- Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- How should I store the cake?
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can I add nuts to this cake?
- Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for extra texture.
- What type of rum works best?
- Dark rum is recommended for its rich flavor, but any type of rum can be used.
- Can I make this cake in advance?
- Yes, the cake can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
- Grease the pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper if using a regular cake pan.
- What can I serve with this cake?
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of confectioners’ sugar.