This Caramelized Apple Cinnamon Cake is a delightful dessert featuring tender apple slices spiced with cinnamon and enveloped in a buttery, vanilla-infused cake. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or anytime you crave a comforting dessert with a hint of tartness and warmth from cinnamon. With simple ingredients, this cake offers a homemade touch that’s irresistibly delicious.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
- For the Apple Filling:
- 5 medium apples (670g, approx. 3 cups, sliced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (40g)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the Cake Batter:
- 5 tablespoons butter (100g, softened)
- Pinch of salt
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar (100g)
- 8g vanilla sugar (approx. 1 1/2 teaspoons)
- 2 medium eggs (each 63g)
- 4g baking powder (approx. 1 teaspoon)
- 400g all-purpose flour (approx. 3 1/4 cups)
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Apples:
Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice, 2 tablespoons sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside. - Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, salt, sugar, and vanilla sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
Sift together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients to form a smooth dough. - Assemble the Cake:
- Roll out the dough to fit a 51×36 cm baking pan.
- Arrange the apple mixture evenly over the dough. Brush with egg yolk.
- Bake:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown. - Finish and Serve:
Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness.
- Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a hot cup of spiced tea or coffee.
- Serve with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
Cooking Tips
- Choose Firm Apples: Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cake light.
- Brush with Egg Yolk for Shine: For a beautiful golden finish, don’t skip brushing the dough with egg yolk.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly to let the flavors meld.
- Add Nutmeg: A dash of nutmeg in the apple mixture can add extra warmth to the flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C.
- Cinnamon has antioxidant properties and can support blood sugar regulation.
- This dessert contains healthy fats from butter.
- Contains protein from the eggs.
- Lower in sodium, suitable for those watching salt intake.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly
- Contains Dairy, Eggs, and Gluten
- May be Adapted for Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free by Substituting Ingredients
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make it beginner-friendly.
- Warm and Comforting: Perfect for chilly days and family gatherings.
- Customizable: Adjust spices or add nuts as desired.
- Classic Flavors: Combines timeless flavors of apple and cinnamon.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, cold, with ice cream, or whipped cream.
Conclusion
This Caramelized Apple Cinnamon Cake brings a comforting and nostalgic flavor to your table. With a tender crumb and spiced apple filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served warm with ice cream or cold as a snack, this dessert is a beautiful way to enjoy apple season’s bounty. Its simplicity and richness make it an inviting treat that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different apples?
Yes, any firm and tart apple variety works well, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. - How do I make this dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as margarine or coconut oil. - Can I add nuts to this cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition. - How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is ready when it turns golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, reduce the sugar by up to half for a less sweet version, but the texture may vary slightly.