This cozy apple nut cake is a timeless treat with a tender, moist crumb and warm cinnamon flavor. Perfect for a dessert or sweet snack, it’s packed with fresh apples and crunchy nuts, making it truly irresistible!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 3 eggs
- 1 pinch salt
- 80 g sugar (about 1/3 cup)
- 12 g vanilla sugar (about 1 tablespoon)
- 100 ml milk (about 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- 150 g all-purpose flour (about 1 cup + 3 tablespoons)
- 10 g baking powder (about 2 teaspoons)
- 30 ml oil (about 2 tablespoons)
Apple Layer
- 4 apples, peeled and sliced
- Butter (for greasing)
- Sugar (for sprinkling)
- Vanilla sugar (for sprinkling)
Topping
- 1 egg
- 150 g flour (about 1 cup + 3 tablespoons)
- 40 g nuts, chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Sugar, for sprinkling
- Butter, cubed
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until combined.
- Add 80g of sugar and 12g of vanilla sugar. Continue mixing until smooth.
- Pour in the milk, then gradually sift in 150g of flour and 10g of baking powder, stirring until you have a smooth batter.
- Finally, add 30ml of oil, mixing to incorporate.
- Arrange the Apple Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Pour the prepared batter into the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the apple slices on top of the batter, pressing them gently into the surface.
- Sprinkle the apples lightly with sugar and vanilla sugar.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine 150g of flour, chopped nuts, a sprinkle of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- Add cubed butter and mix until the mixture is crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake at 170°C for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or spiced tea.
- Serve as a dessert or as a sweet breakfast treat.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mix of apple varieties for depth of flavor.
- Make sure to slice apples thinly for even baking.
- For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the nuts before adding them to the topping.
- Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its shape.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples are high in fiber and antioxidants.
- Nuts provide healthy fats and protein, adding crunch and nutrition.
- Eggs add protein and structure to the cake.
- Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be adapted for dairy-free by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: ~230
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple ingredients found in any kitchen.
- Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and vanilla for a comforting taste.
- Versatile for both breakfast or dessert.
- The apples add moisture and natural sweetness.
- The nut topping provides a delightful crunch!
Conclusion
This apple nut cake is an easy, wholesome dessert that brings together tender apples, warm spices, and a satisfying nutty crunch. Whether served warm or cool, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Make it ahead for a quick treat, or enjoy it fresh out of the oven for a cozy bite of homemade goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of fruit? Yes, pears or peaches work well as alternatives.
- Can I make this cake vegan? Substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg and use plant-based milk and butter.
- Do I need to peel the apples? Peeling is optional; leaving the peel on adds more fiber.
- What kind of nuts are best? Walnuts, almonds, or pecans are excellent choices.
- How can I reduce sugar? Use a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar slightly; the apples provide natural sweetness.