This Classic Apple Rum Cake is a delightful dessert that combines tender, juicy apple pieces with the warm, rich flavors of dark rum and vanilla. Perfect for autumn or any occasion, this cake has a moist and buttery texture that’s irresistible. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar for a touch of elegance, and enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup, spooned and leveled (125 g)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Unsalted Butter: 1 stick (½ cup), at room temperature
- Granulated Sugar: ⅔ cup, plus more for sprinkling
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Dark Rum: 3 tablespoons
- Baking Apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith): 2, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch cubes (about 3½–4 cups chopped)
- Confectioners’ Sugar: Optional, for dusting
Directions
- Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and dark rum.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Apples:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples with a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the top generously with granulated sugar for a crispy crust.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving, if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, airy topping.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for a decadent treat.
- Enjoy with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Slice thinly and serve alongside a cheese platter for a unique twist.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use firm baking apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to retain texture during baking.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and a smooth batter.
- Toss the apple cubes in a little flour before mixing them into the batter to prevent sinking.
- For added warmth, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the top before baking.
- Line the cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: High in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Dark Rum: Adds depth of flavor with minimal calories.
- Butter and Eggs: Provide essential fats and protein for energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No, but can be made gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: No, contains butter (use dairy-free alternatives for a dairy-free version).
- Low-Sugar: No, but you can reduce the sugar for a less sweet version.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly moist and buttery with the freshness of apples.
- Infused with warm, rich flavors of dark rum and vanilla.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Versatile enough for dessert, tea time, or a special breakfast treat.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings or spices.
Conclusion
This Classic Apple Rum Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the timeless flavors of apple and vanilla with the warmth of dark rum. Its moist texture, caramelized sugar crust, and tender apple chunks make every bite a comforting treat. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a decadent topping, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular apples instead of baking apples? Yes, but they may soften more during baking. Use firm apples for the best texture.
- Can I substitute the dark rum? Yes, you can use apple juice or milk for a non-alcoholic version.
- What’s the best way to ensure even baking? Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Can I add spices to the batter? Yes, a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the flavors beautifully.
- Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar? Yes, it will add a deeper caramel flavor to the cake.
- How do I prevent the apples from sinking? Toss the apple pieces in a bit of flour before adding to the batter.
- Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- How should I reheat leftovers? Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Can I use a bundt pan instead of a round pan? Yes, but adjust the baking time slightly as bundt pans take longer.
- What pairs well with this cake? Serve with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar.
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this apple rum cake and make any occasion special! 🍎✨