This Moist Apple Almond Cake is a soft, flavorful cake filled with fresh apples, warm vanilla, and zesty lemon peel. Topped with caramelized apples, crunchy almonds, and dried cherries, it’s a perfect dessert for tea time, brunch, or a cozy family gathering.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter
- Eggs: 3
- Sugar: 150g (¾ cup)
- Vanilla: A pinch
- Oil: 120ml (½ cup)
- Milk: 240ml (1 cup)
- Flour: 300g (2 cups)
- Baking Powder: 15g (1 tablespoon)
- Chopped Apples: 3 medium-sized
- Grated Lemon Peel: From 1 lemon
For the Topping
- Chopped Apple: 1 medium-sized
- Butter: 20g (1 tablespoon)
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Almond Flakes: To taste
- Dried Cherries: To taste
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Grease and line a 24 cm (9.5 inches) baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale.
- Add oil and milk, whisking until well combined.
- Sift in flour and baking powder, then gently mix until smooth and lump-free.
- Fold in grated lemon peel and 3 chopped apples, mixing evenly.
Step 3: Pour into the Baking Dish
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 chopped apple and 2 tablespoons of sugar, sautéing until softened and slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Add the Topping
- Arrange the caramelized apple slices on top of the batter.
- Sprinkle with almond flakes and dried cherries for extra texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 40-50 minutes at 175°C (350°F), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
- Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or warm spiced cider.
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon before serving.
Cooking Tips
- For extra moisture, add 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter.
- For a nutty flavor, replace some flour with ground almonds.
- For a crunchier topping, sprinkle brown sugar on top before baking.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and vegan butter.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples are rich in fiber & antioxidants.
- Almonds provide healthy fats & vitamin E.
- Eggs & milk add protein & essential nutrients.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Can be made dairy-free (use plant-based milk & butter)
- Lower sugar option available (reduce sugar & use natural sweeteners)
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 220-250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 15g
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, moist, and packed with flavor.
- Loaded with fresh apples & warm spices.
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a tea-time treat.
- Customizable with different nuts & dried fruits.
Conclusion
This Moist Apple Almond Cake is a cozy, comforting dessert that combines tender apples, zesty lemon, and crunchy almonds. Whether for a casual snack or a special gathering, this easy-to-make cake will impress every time! Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade apple treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the cake may be denser. Try a 50/50 mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.
- Can I use a different fruit? Yes! Try pears, peaches, or berries.
- How do I prevent the cake from being too dry? Use extra oil or yogurt for added moisture.
- Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar? Yes! It will add a deeper caramel-like flavor.
- What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for 4 days.
- Can I make this into muffins? Yes! Bake in a muffin tin at 175°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- How do I make this cake fluffier? Beat the eggs and sugar well to incorporate air into the batter.
- What can I serve this cake with? Whipped cream, yogurt, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Can I bake this in a loaf pan instead? Yes, but increase the baking time to 50-60 minutes.