Caramelized Apple Cinnamon Cake

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

  1. Prepare the Apples:
    Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice, 2 tablespoons sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    Sift together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients to form a smooth dough.
  4. 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.
  5. Bake:
    Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. 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

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

  1. Can I use different apples?
    Yes, any firm and tart apple variety works well, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
  2. How do I make this dairy-free?
    Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as margarine or coconut oil.
  3. Can I add nuts to this cake?
    Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition.
  4. 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.
  5. Can I reduce the sugar?
    Yes, reduce the sugar by up to half for a less sweet version, but the texture may vary slightly.