There’s something magical about a warm slice of Cast Iron Irish Apple Cake. With its tender crumb, perfectly spiced apple slices, and a crisp golden crust, this traditional Irish dessert is a true delight. Whether you enjoy it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this simple yet elegant cake is a nod to the rustic flavors of Ireland. Originally baked in pots over open fires, Irish apple cake is a heritage dish that has stood the test of time. The use of a cast-iron skillet enhances the crispy edges while keeping the interior moist and flavorful. Whether served for St. Patrick’s Day, a cozy weekend brunch, or just because you love apples, this easy-to-make cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 8 tablespoons butter (1 stick)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium apple, sliced thinly (about 1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Dash of ground cloves
- Dash of cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Whisk the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the flour and butter mixture.
- Make a well in the center and add the beaten egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft, almost scone-like dough forms.
- Spoon and press the dough into the bottom of the prepared skillet. Layer the thinly sliced apples over the dough.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of sugar with a dash each of ground cloves and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the apples.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
- Switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the edges are golden brown (optional but recommended for added crispness).
- Let cool slightly, then cut into wedges. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 212 kcal per serving | Servings: 8
A Brief History of Irish Apple Cake
Apple-based desserts have a long history in Ireland, dating back to when apples were abundant across the lush countryside. Historically, Irish apple cakes were often steamed over open fires rather than baked, making them more of a pudding than the firm cakes we know today. Apples played a significant role in Celtic mythology, symbolizing wisdom and immortality. They were a staple ingredient in many Irish dishes, both sweet and savory.
As baking methods evolved, so did the preparation of apple cakes. Ovens became more common in households, and Irish bakers began adapting their recipes. Instead of steaming, they baked the cakes in iron pots or skillets, giving them a firmer texture and a beautifully crisp crust. Today, Cast Iron Irish Apple Cake remains a favorite, enjoyed for its rustic charm and simple yet delicious flavors.
Why Bake in a Cast Iron Skillet?
Baking in a cast iron skillet offers unique benefits that enhance the quality of this Irish apple cake. The heavy construction of cast iron provides even heat distribution, ensuring that the cake bakes uniformly. Unlike thin baking pans, which can cause uneven browning, cast iron helps develop a perfectly golden, crisp edge while keeping the interior moist.
Another advantage of using a cast iron skillet is the way it retains heat. Once removed from the oven, the skillet keeps the cake warm for longer, making it perfect for serving fresh out of the oven. Additionally, the slightly caramelized edges that form due to the direct contact with the pan create a delightful contrast in texture against the soft cake center.
For those who appreciate the old-world charm of cooking, using a cast iron skillet is also a nod to tradition. Many traditional Irish desserts were cooked over open flames or in cast iron pots, and this method continues to honor the heritage of Irish baking.
The Unique Flavor Profile of Irish Apple Cake
Unlike American apple pies or French tarte tatins, Irish Apple Cake is more of a rustic, lightly spiced sponge cake than a pastry. It strikes a balance between a soft, crumbly cake and a slightly crisp exterior. The apples provide a natural sweetness, while the subtle use of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds warmth without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Another hallmark of this cake is its slightly scone-like texture. Unlike ultra-moist cakes that rely on oil or heavy butter content, Irish apple cake maintains a firmer, more structured crumb, making it ideal for serving with tea or coffee.
For an extra layer of indulgence, many people enjoy dusting the cake with powdered sugar or pairing it with fresh whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of homemade custard. These accompaniments enhance the flavor without detracting from the cake’s traditional essence.
Best Apples to Use for Irish Apple Cake
Choosing the right apples is key to getting the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in this cake. Traditionally, Irish apple cakes were made with crab apples, which were widely available in Ireland. However, modern recipes use a variety of apple types.
Some of the best apples for this cake include:
- Granny Smith – Tart and firm, these apples hold their shape well during baking.
- Honeycrisp – Naturally sweet with a crisp texture that adds a pleasant bite.
- Braeburn – Slightly tart with a deep apple flavor.
- Fuji or Gala – Sweeter apples that work well if you prefer a naturally sweet cake.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility using a mix of tart and sweet apples can add depth to the flavor, making each bite a delightful contrast of tanginess and sweetness.
When to Serve Irish Apple Cake
One of the best things about Cast Iron Irish Apple Cake is its versatility. It’s not just a dessert; it can be enjoyed at various occasions throughout the year.
- St. Patrick’s Day – A perfect way to celebrate Irish heritage with an authentic dish.
- Holiday Gatherings – A comforting dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas, offering a cozy, homemade feel.
- Tea Time or Brunch – Ideal as a sweet addition to afternoon tea or a light brunch treat.
- Casual Desserts – Serve it as a simple weeknight dessert with a dollop of cream or ice cream.
Its rustic appeal makes it suitable for both casual family gatherings and special occasions. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it never fails to impress with its old-fashioned charm.
Tips for Perfecting Your Irish Apple Cake
- Use Cold Butter – Similar to making biscuits or scones, cutting cold butter into the flour creates a tender, flaky texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mixing too much can make the cake dense rather than light and crumbly.
- Thinly Slice the Apples – This ensures even cooking and a well-distributed apple flavor in every bite.
- Broiling for a Crisp Finish – While optional, a quick broil at the end of baking gives the edges a lovely golden brown color and a slight crispness.
- Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving – This allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.
Conclusion:
Cast Iron Irish Apple Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic nod to Ireland’s rich culinary history. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious flavors, it embodies the warmth and hospitality of traditional Irish baking. The crisp edges, tender apples, and subtle spices make it a dessert that stands the test of time.
Whether you bake it for St. Patrick’s Day, a family gathering, or just as a comforting weekend treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Serve it warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. However you enjoy it, you’ll be savoring a piece of Irish heritage with every bite.