This apple cake is a perfect blend of tender apples and a light, flavorful batter, creating a deliciously moist dessert that’s sure to please. Ideal for autumn gatherings or a cozy family dessert, this cake’s simplicity and rich taste make it a favorite. The combination of sweet apples and a hint of vanilla creates a warm, comforting treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Baking: 60 minutes
- Cooling: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 100g (about 1/2 cup) sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Vanillin to taste
- 40g (about 3 tablespoons) melted butter
- 200ml (about 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons) milk
- 200g (about 1 2/3 cups) flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 5 large apples or 7 medium apples
- 20g (about 1 1/2 tablespoons) melted butter (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar, salt, and vanillin until well combined.
- Add the melted butter and milk to the egg mixture, mixing thoroughly.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, and mix until you have a smooth batter.
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Thin slices ensure even baking and a tender texture.
- Combine Apples and Batter:
- Gently fold the apple slices into the batter, ensuring each slice is well-coated.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 24 cm (9.5-inch) baking dish. Pour the apple batter mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake the cake in the oven for 60 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a hot beverage like tea, coffee, or spiced apple cider.
Cooking Tips:
- Slice the Apples Thinly: This ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
- Let It Cool: Cooling the cake completely helps set the flavors and makes slicing easier.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: A good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C.
- Balanced Nutrition: Provides a balanced source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins from the eggs, butter, and flour.
Dietary Information:
- Contains: Gluten, dairy, and eggs.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Tender and Moist: The apples keep the cake moist and flavorful.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a no-fuss dessert.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday gatherings.
Conclusion:
This apple cake is a classic dessert that brings together the sweetness of apples and the comfort of a homemade cake. Its moist, flavorful texture and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for any baker. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender apples and a light, spongy cake, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, this apple cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of apple?
- Yes, you can use any apple variety you like, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.
- Can I add spices to the batter?
- Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice would add a warm, autumnal flavor.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Yes, the cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container.
- What if I don’t have vanillin?
- You can substitute it with vanilla extract for a similar flavor.
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
- Yes, but the texture will be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balanced texture.
- Can I reduce the sugar?
- Yes, you can reduce the sugar to 75g if you prefer a less sweet cake.
- How do I prevent the apples from browning?
- Toss the apple slices in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the batter.
- Can I add nuts to this cake?
- Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch.
- How do I know when the cake is done?
- The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- What can I serve with this cake besides whipped cream?
- A drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream would be delicious!